Is it difficult to give paracetamol to a baby? Learn about this solution (Acetaminophen Rectal Suppository)

Your little one has a high fever and says he has aches and pains, but he vomits after taking the paracetamol syrup he is given. Or you may be feeling helpless because you are unable to take the medicine properly due to your reluctance to take it. In such a situation, a doctor may recommend a rectal suppository. Many mothers are a little afraid of this, but it is a very simple and safe method. Today, let's talk about this medicine, how to use it, and what precautions you need to take.

What exactly is this Acetaminophen Suppository?

Simply put, this is the same Paracetamol that we all know. But this does not come as a pill, capsule, or syrup. This comes as a bullet-shaped, waxy piece of medicine. We call this a `Suppository`. When this is inserted into the body through the rectum, it melts in the body's heat and the medicine is absorbed into the blood.

This is mainly used for:

• Relieve mild to moderate pain (e.g. body aches, headaches, teething pain).
• Reduce fever .

This means that it does the same thing as paracetamol that we take orally. The only difference is the way the medicine is administered into the body.

Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine

Before the doctor prescribes this medicine for you or your child, it is very important to provide a complete description of your or your child's health condition. Be sure to mention these facts in particular.

• Liver disease: If you or your child has any liver disease, you should be very careful about using paracetamol. So tell your doctor about this first.
• Alcohol use: If you are a regular drinker, inform your doctor about it. The combination of alcohol and paracetamol is very harmful to the liver.
• Allergies: Tell us if you have ever had an allergy to acetaminophen, any other medicine, food, or dye.
• Pregnancy or expecting a baby: If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, it is essential to seek medical advice before taking any medication.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: Do not use any medication without medical advice while breastfeeding.

How exactly do I use this medicine?

This is the biggest problem that many people have. Don't worry, it's not as difficult as you think. Follow these steps.

1. Preparation: First , wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water . Then carefully remove the aluminum foil wrapping from the medicine.

2. To make it easier: Lightly moisten the pointed end of the suppository with cold tap water. This will make insertion much easier.

3. Position: Turn the person (child or adult) you are going to insert the medicine into and have them lie on their side. Keep the bottom leg straight and the top leg slightly bent towards the stomach . This position is the easiest way to expose the anus.

4. Insertion: Gently lift the upper buttock up to expose the rectum. Now slowly insert the suppository all the way into the rectum , with the pointed end going in first . Do not use too much force, push gently.

5. What to do next: After inserting the medicine, press your buttocks together for a few seconds. Then, lie down for about 15 minutes . This will prevent the medicine from coming out again and give it time to dissolve and be absorbed into the body.

6. End: When you are finished, wash your hands thoroughly again.

Doctors sometimes recommend this medicine even for infants (over 3 months of age). However, it should always be used only under medical advice and in the prescribed dosage.

What to do if you overdose?

This is a very serious matter . Paracetamol is a very safe medicine if used properly. However, if taken in excess, it can cause severe liver damage . It can even be life-threatening.

If you think you have overdosed, seek medical advice immediately, even if you do not have any symptoms .

• Go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately.
• Call the National Poison Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Don't take this lightly. Sometimes it can take hours or even days for symptoms of liver damage to show. So if you have any doubts, take action immediately.

Other things to be careful about

Things not to use with this medicine

Some medications can interact with paracetamol, so tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Especially:

• Alcohol
• Medicines like Imatinib and Isoniazid
• Other medicines containing paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

When should I see the doctor again?

• For a child, if the pain lasts more than 5 days , or the fever lasts more than 3 days .
• For an adult, if the pain lasts more than 10 days .
• If the pain is getting worse, or if a new type of pain appears.

In a situation like this, it is important to see a doctor to find out the cause.

How to store the medicine?

Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets . Store at room temperature (below 27 degrees Celsius). Keep away from moisture and heat. Discard expired medicine.

Acetaminophen, Paracetamol, Suppository, Fever, Pain, Child Health, Rectal Tract, Medicine, Side Effects