In a study of pediatric medicine trends over an eight year period,antibioticswere prescribed the most for kids.
However, this declined over time and prescriptions for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder increased.
This article explores the most common prescription medications for children and teens.
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It will also explain the concerns that each medication may treat.
It may be used to treat bacterial infections such asstrep throat, childhoodpneumonia, ear infections, andsinus infections.
It is often prescribed forear infections.
Albuterol
Albuterol is a key in of medication used to help with asthma and other breathing issues.
It is available as a nebulizer, which turns medicine into a mist that you breathe in.
It is also available as a metered dose inhaler, which outputs a specific amount of medicine.
The syrup form of albuterol is rarely used.
Albuterol nebulizer solution is an inexpensive medication.
Albuterolasthma inhalerstend to be more expensive.
However, there is a Ventolin HFA inhaler that tends to be a less expensive inhaler option.
Amoxicillin/Clavulanate
Augmentincombines amoxicillin andclavulanate,which helps overcome resistant bacteria.
Cefdinir is not usually considered to be a first-line treatment.
In general, cefdinir is a little more expensive than some other antibiotics.
These medications may be used to treat kids with conditions like eczema, allergies, and asthma.
Although available over the counter as Motrin and Advil, there are also prescription-strength formulations of it.
It is also used to treat community-acquired methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureusinfections (MRSA), which are often skin infections.
However, clindamycin may be a more effective option for children.
The FDA warns that codeine should only be used when the benefits will outweigh the risks.
Some risks include unusual sleepiness, confusion, and shallow breathing.
It is stronger than codeine.
Although mupirocin cream and ointment are both available as generics, the ointment tends to be less expensive.
Medications include Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana, Methylin, and Metadate.
Prices for methylphenidate products can vary.
Be aware that in 2023, an FDA panel concluded that oral phenylephrine isn’t an effective decongestant.
Some retailers have started pulling single-ingredient phenylephrine products from their shelves.
Mometasone
Mometasone is a corticosteroid used for allergies.
It is commonly used in small dosages for short periods of time.
Multivitamins With Fluoride
If needed, children can take a multivitamin with fluoride.
Generic versions of intermediate-release Adderall and extended-release Adderall XR are available.
It is used to treat skin rashes, bites, and stings.
Rhinocort nasal spray is available over the counter.
Budesonide is used to treat seasonal allergies, asthma, and other inflammatory conditions.
Ciprofloxacin/Dexamethasone
Ciprodex is the brand name for this antibiotic/steroid combination.
It is not available as a generic.
Be sure to mention if your child has any allergies or sensitivities when speaking with their pediatrician.
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