Children are particularly susceptible to illnesses, especially during the winter months. Having a well-stocked medicine cupboard can help parents manage common childhood illnesses and minor injuries effectively.
It is important to remember that with the rise in cost of living, you do not need to purchase brand name medicines. Supermarket or pharmacy own brands work in exactly the same way and are often cheaper.
Here’s a list of essential items recommended by the NHS.
Pain relief and fever reducers
- Paediatric paracetamol: Effective for pain relief and reducing fever. Available in liquid form for younger children.
- Paediatric ibuprofen: Another option for pain relief, inflammation, and fever. Speak to your pharmacist to ensure it is appropriate for your child’s age.
Cold and flu treatments
- Saline nasal drops: Help to clear blocked noses, especially in babies and young children.
- Vapour rub for children: Helps to ease nasal congestion and soothe a cough.
- Children’s cough syrup: Choose based on whether your child has a dry or chesty cough.
Digestive aids
- Oral rehydration salts for children: Useful for rehydration after diarrhoea or vomiting.
- Mild laxatives: Suitable for children, to relieve constipation. Always consult a GP before use.
First aid supplies
- Children’s plasters and bandages: For minor cuts and injuries, in fun designs to make them more appealing.
- Antiseptic cream or spray: Prevents infection in cuts and grazes.
- Digital thermometer: Essential for monitoring your child’s temperature.
- Tweezers: Useful for removing splinters.
Miscellaneous items
- Teething gel: Helps to soothe teething pain.
- Nappy rash cream: Essential for babies to treat and prevent nappy rash.
- Sun cream: Even in winter, it’s good to have on hand for sunny days to protect your child’s skin.
Additional advice
Always read the label and take medications as directed. If you have any questions or concerns about over-the-counter medicines for your child, speak to your community pharmacist. They can provide valuable advice on the appropriate use of these products.
You should always store medicines out of reach of children, ideally in a high, lockable cupboard.
Video: Essential items every medicine cupboard should have
In the below video local Community Pharmacist, Mary Oaiya talks about what medicine everyone should have at home to help tackle common childhood health problems.