What is Dr. Shivranjani Santosh warning about infant medicines?

Dr. Santosh is warning that over-the-counter infant antihistamine drops often contain adult-sized doses, which can be harmful to babies.

Why are Schedule H drugs like cetirizine drops risky for children?

Schedule H drugs are prescription-only because their misuse can cause harm; giving adult doses to infants can lead to severe health issues.

What are the dangers of overdosing infants with allergy drops?

Overdosing can cause excessive drowsiness and suppressed breathing in infants, which in extreme cases, can be fatal.

Home / Health / Doctor Warns: OTC Infant Meds Overdosed

Doctor Warns: OTC Infant Meds Overdosed

22 Jan

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Summary

Infant antihistamine drops contain adult-sized doses.
Over-the-counter sales of Schedule H drugs pose risks.
High doses can cause severe drowsiness and slow breathing.

Paediatrician Dr. Shivranjani Santosh has voiced serious concerns regarding the over-the-counter availability of cetirizine and levocetirizine drops for infants and children. These antihistamines, classified under Schedule H, are meant to be sold exclusively by prescription due to potential harm from misuse.

Dr. Santosh highlights that the commonly provided 1 ml dropper contains 10 mg of the drug, an adult dose, posing a significant risk to infants. This excessive dosage can lead to severe drowsiness and dangerously slow breathing, impairing oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal.

The lack of awareness among caregivers and insufficient enforcement by pharmacies exacerbate the problem. Dr. Santosh advocates for stricter regulations, improved packaging with safer droppers, and increased public awareness to prevent accidental overdoses.