Has your little one been given a shot of corticotropin, or ACTH, by the doctor? This is a mainstay medication for a specific type of seizure called infantile spasms, which usually occurs in babies under two years of age. It is also sometimes used to treat inflammation in areas such as the skin, joints, and lungs. So you may have a lot of questions about this special medication. It is very normal. Let's talk about it all simply and clearly.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
This is very important. Before your child starts this medicine, you should
definitely inform your doctor if they have any of the following conditions. Don't hide anything, thinking it's a minor thing.
| Quality type | What you need to inform |
|---|
| Current medical conditions | |
| Infections and immunity | - An infectious condition (especially viral infections like chickenpox and herpes)
- A recent or upcoming vaccine
|
| Other medical issues | - A recent surgery
- Having seizures
|
| Allergies | - Allergy to Corticotropin, Corticosteroids
- Allergy to pork protein
- Allergies to any other medicine, food, or coloring
|
| Regarding the mother | - If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- If you are a breastfeeding mother
|
How do you use this medicine?
This medicine is given as an injection under the skin or into a muscle.
If you have to give this to your child at home, the doctor or nursing staff will explain to you how to do it. Don't be afraid. Follow their instructions exactly. Don't stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to.
Safe disposal of needles and syringes
This is very important.
Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They should be placed in a special sharps container. If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
Always read the information leaflet (MedGuide/leaflet) that comes with your medicine carefully. If there is anything you do not understand, do not hesitate to ask your doctor.
What do you do if you miss a medication appointment?
Give it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time.
Never take a double dose. What if I give too much by mistake? (Overdose)
If you think you have been given too much medicine, don't panic.
Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call
the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Things to be careful about when taking this medicine
- Regular medical check-ups : It is very important to take your child for check-ups as per the dates given by the doctor. If the symptoms do not improve or worsen, tell the doctor .
- Risk of infection: This medicine may slightly weaken your child's immune system. Therefore, there is a higher chance of developing infections. If you develop symptoms such as fever, runny nose, sore throat, or body aches, tell your doctor immediately. Minimize your child's exposure to sick people.
- Chickenpox and measles: If your child has not been vaccinated against chickenpox or measles, tell your doctor immediately if they come into contact with someone who has these diseases.
- Vaccines: Some vaccines may be less effective while taking this medication. Therefore, before giving your child any vaccines, be sure to tell the doctor that your child is taking this medication.
- Other medications: Give your doctor a complete list of any other medications, vitamins, or herbal remedies you are giving your child. Some medications can interact with this one.
What side effects can occur?
Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Some of them are serious, some of them are common.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately |
|---|
| Allergies | Swelling of the face, lips, skin lesions, itching |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, sore throat, cough, urinary tract infection |
| Increased blood pressure | The doctor will check this. |
| Increased blood sugar | Frequent hunger, thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, blurred vision |
| Mental changes | Sudden changes in mood, restlessness |
| Other serious symptoms | Black or bloody stools, severe stomach pain, difficulty breathing, eye pain, swelling of the ankles or feet, extreme fatigue |
| Long-term effects | Stunted growth in children, weakening of bones (when used for a long time) |
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome |
|---|
| Body changes | Acne, weight gain, changes in appetite |
| Behavioral changes | Getting angry for no reason, feeling restless (Irritable) |
How should I store the medicine?
- Keep it safe, out of reach of children and pets.
- Store on an inside shelf of the refrigerator, not in the door, at a temperature between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Do not store in the freezer.
- Dispose of expired medications. Ask your doctor how to safely dispose of expired or unwanted medications.
Take-Home Message
- Corticotropin (ACTH) is a medication that is given to babies for specific conditions, such as infantile spasms, and should only be used under medical supervision.
- Before starting the medication, tell the doctor about all of your child's medical conditions and other medications they are taking.
- Learn from medical staff exactly how to give the vaccine. Dispose of used needles safely.
- Be especially aware of signs of infection (fever, cough) while taking the medicine. If you notice any such signs, tell your doctor immediately.
- Never stop taking medication or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.
- If you have any concerns or doubts, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor. Your child's safety is the most important thing.
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