Did the doctor prescribe fluoride and vitamin D drops for your little one? When they prescribe it, many mothers have a few questions. "Why is this being given?", "How exactly should I give it?", "Will this cause any problems?" You may be wondering. Don't worry, it's very normal. Let's talk about this clearly and simply today.
Why are babies given this medicine?
Simply put, this is extra nutrition to keep your baby's teeth and bones (spines) strong and healthy. It has two main ingredients: fluoride and vitamin D.
- Fluoride: This is very important for teeth. It's like a protective coating on our teeth. Fluoride strengthens the enamel of our teeth. This helps prevent cavities. It's very important to keep your teeth healthy from a young age.
- Vitamin D: This is like a superhero that helps our body absorb calcium. No matter how much milk we drink and eat calcium-rich foods, if our body doesn't have enough vitamin D, the calcium won't be absorbed properly. So, vitamin D is essential for strong bones and healthy tooth development.
This means that these drops are given to protect your baby's future teeth and strengthen their bones.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before prescribing this medication, your doctor will ask you some questions. It is very important that you answer all of them correctly. You should also inform your doctor about these matters.
| Matter to be informed | Why is that? (Simply) |
|---|---|
| Does the water you drink contain fluoride? | In some areas, fluoride is added to drinking water. In such cases, additional fluoride may increase the amount. |
| If you or your baby have kidney or liver disease. | If these organs are not functioning properly, there may be problems with the elimination of medication from the body. |
| If you have allergies to fluoride, vitamin D, or other medications or foods. | This is essential to prevent allergies. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. | Even though this is a medicine given to a baby, this information is important when talking about the medication you are taking. |
How exactly do you give the medicine to the baby?
This is very easy, but you need to be a little careful.
- Give it at the right time: Make it a habit to give the medicine at the same time every day , as the doctor told you.
- Shake well: Shake the bottle well before use.
- Use the correct equipment: Only use the special dropper, oral syringe, or measuring spoon that comes with the medicine. Do not use household teaspoons, as they are not accurate.
- Giving with food: You can give these drops mixed with your baby's porridge, fruit juice, or other food.
- Most importantly: Never mix this medicine with milk or formula. Doing so will cause the fluoride to bind to the calcium in the milk, reducing the absorption of the medicine.
- Other medications: If your child is taking other medications that contain aluminum, magnesium, or calcium (such as some antacids), do not give them at the same time as fluoride drops. Leave at least 2 hours between them. Talk to your doctor about this.
- Don't stop: Don't stop taking the medication until your doctor tells you to.
What do you do if you forget?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What if I give too much medicine?
If you have the slightest suspicion that you have given your baby more than you think, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or take the baby to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Side effects to be aware of when giving medication
This medicine is safe in most cases. However, sometimes minor side effects can occur. It's good to be aware of them.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Things to tell your doctor immediately: | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Tooth discoloration | White or brown spots on the teeth (fluorosis). |
| Fluoride toxicity | Severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, extreme fatigue. |
| Increased calcium levels | Excessive thirst , frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, bone pain. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist: | |
| Constipation | |
| Appetite | |
| Nausea | |
How do you keep the medicine bottle safe?
- Keep out of reach of children: This is the most important thing. Keep it in a high place, in a lockable cupboard, out of reach of children and pets. Because of the taste of these drops, children are likely to drink too much, which can be very dangerous.
- Store at room temperature: Store at normal room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Keep away from extreme heat or cold.
- Dispose of after expiration: Do not use the medicine after the expiration date on the bottle. Dispose of it properly. The best way is usually to donate it to a drug take-back program. Ask your doctor about this.
Take-Home Message
- Fluoride and vitamin D are very important nutritional supplements that prevent tooth decay and strengthen bones in babies.
- Before administering the medication, give the doctor a complete description of your and your baby's health conditions.
- Always use only the dropper or measuring device that comes with the medicine. Do not use household spoons.
- Most importantly: Do not mix these drops with milk or formula. It is best to give them mixed with food or fruit juice.
- If you suspect that you have been given too much medicine, seek medical advice immediately.
- Keep the medicine bottle in a safe place where children cannot touch it.
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