"There is non-pharmacological therapy, no need to take medicine. In case of fever, do not immediately consume drugs because fever is actually self-defense," Jakarta Health Office's Head of Pharmaceutical Affairs Hari Sulistyo remarked during a discussion on tips for consuming drugs safely here on Friday.
Sulistyo suggested that if a child has a fever, then he or she should be encouraged to consume ample fluids and fruit juices, use warm water compress, and take rest for long periods of time.
"Not all diseases need drugs, as they have a treating effect but also have side effects," he emphasized.
He said another alternative to consuming drugs is by grinding or crushing the tablets first.
"However, still, consultation (is required) because not all tablets can be ground, as there are thinly coated tablets that cannot be ground. Hence, please coordinate and consult with the prescribing doctor," he remarked.
He also pointed out some extended-release medication that had a slow-healing effect for which consultation with a doctor or pharmacist is necessary, as there might harmful effects on the body.
Related news: Ministry, BPOM work to remove medicinal syrups from market
Nevertheless, he advised to grind the tablets and add a little sugar syrup while administering to children.
"If it is bitter, then sugar syrup can be added a little bit because it does not react with the drugs," Sulistyo stated.
Furthermore, he advised parents to monitor the side effects on children, who have recently consumed medicinal syrup products.
The government has temporarily prohibited the distribution and consumption of medicinal syrup products and is still conducting research on its relation and cause of the current increasing number of acute kidney disorder cases in children.
"This progressive atypical acute kidney disorder is still being researched by the Health Ministry and the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM)," Sulistyo added.
Related news: EG, DEG in five medicinal syrup products exceed safe level: BPOM
Translator: Fitra A. Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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