Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version

This list of nonprescription drugs and supplies will be sufficient to relieve symptoms in the majority of acute illnesses that affect every family. Since these medicines will not shorten the course of the illnesses, give them only when symptoms are really bothering your child. Observe all label precautions.

• acetaminophen: for fever or pain
• ibuprofen: for pain or fever
• thermometers, rectal and oral types
• rubber suction bulb: for stuffy, blocked nose (after using warm-water nosedrops)
• vasoconstrictor nosedrops: for severely blocked nose
• butterscotch hard candies: for sore throat
• cough drops or corn syrup (as effective as expectorant cough syrups): for mild coughs
• dextromethorphan-containing cough syrup (cough suppressant): for severe coughs and nighttime coughs
• humidifier (cool mist type): for coughs or croup
• long-acting vasoconstrictor eyedrops for irritated, reddened eyes
• antibiotic eyedrops: for bacterial eye infections with a yellow discharge. (Note: This is the only prescription item on this list.)
• cotton balls: for cleaning infected eyes
• sunscreen (cream and lip balm)
• 1% hydrocortisone: for itchy skin conditions such as mosquito bites and poison ivy
• bacitracin or Betadine antibiotic ointment: for skin infections
• acetone (nail polish remover): for removing tape from the skin
• rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol): for sterilizing the skin or needles
• Ipecac, syrup of (30-ml bottle): for inducing vomiting in some types of poisoning
• antihistamine medicine (for example, Chlor-Trimeton in 4-mg tablets or 2-mg/teaspoon syrup): for hives, hay fever, and eye allergies (optional for many families, but definitely needed if family members have allergies)
• gastrointestinal medicines: Vomiting and diarrhea respond best to dietary changes, and the numerous nonprescription medicines that are available are unnecessary or harmful. Acute constipation may occasionally require some Milk of Magnesia, but most children respond to dietary change.
• tincture of time (the passage of time): cures the majority of mild illnesses.
• TLC (tender loving care): makes the time pass more quickly.