Can children take this medication?
October 12, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Carsten Schillinger
Dear doctor,
I am reaching out to you with a question regarding a medication that I want to give to my child. My son, 8 years old, suffers from asthma and has been experiencing increased breathing difficulties lately. Our treating physician has now prescribed the medication Salbutamol to help him with his acute attacks.
However, I am worried about whether this medication is suitable for children his age and if there could possibly be side effects. My son weighs 25 kg and I am wondering if the dosage needs to be adjusted accordingly.
I have already searched the internet for information, but have come across conflicting statements. Some sources say that Salbutamol is safe for children, while others warn of potential risks.
Could you please help me and tell me if my son can take this medication? And if so, what should the dosage be and what should we watch out for? I want to provide the best possible treatment for my child and I am grateful for any help you can give me.
Thank you in advance.
Best regards,
Renate Kuhn
Dear Mrs. Kuhn,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a doctor specializing in medication. I understand your concerns regarding the prescription of Salbutamol for your 8-year-old son who suffers from asthma. It is important for parents to educate themselves about the medications being administered to their children to ensure they receive the best possible treatment.
Salbutamol is a widely used medication for the treatment of asthma and is often prescribed to children to alleviate acute breathing difficulties. It belongs to the group of short-acting beta-2 agonists and works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, leading to an expansion of the airways and thus facilitating breathing.
In terms of the safety of Salbutamol in children, there are extensive studies and experiences suggesting that the medication is suitable for children of his age. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Global Initiative for Asthma recommend the use of Salbutamol in children with asthma from a certain age, including 8 years old. It is important to adjust the dosage according to the child's weight to achieve the best possible effect and minimize side effects.
For an 8-year-old boy weighing 25 kg, the recommended dosage of Salbutamol is usually 1-2 puffs from a metered-dose inhaler or 2.5-5 mg as a nebulizer solution. However, the exact dosage and application should be discussed with the treating physician to ensure it is tailored to your son's needs.
It is important to note that Salbutamol should only be used as needed to alleviate acute breathing difficulties. It should not be used regularly as a long-term treatment. Furthermore, it is important to be aware of potential side effects such as palpitations, tremors, or headaches and consult a doctor if they occur.
I hope this information is helpful to you and helps ensure the best possible treatment for your son. Please discuss any questions and concerns with your treating physician to ensure an individualized and effective treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry and best wishes for your son.
Sincerely,
Carsten Schillinger
