It is important to have your medicine cabinet well supplied to be able to effectively deal with illnesses and accidents when they occur. The following is a list of commonly used medications and supplies which you may find useful to keep on hand. Keep all medication and/or potential poisons such as cleaners in locked cabinets out of reach of children.

  1. Acetaminophen (Tempra, Tylenol) – This comes in several forms from drops to chewable tablets. It is used for pain and fever control. Dosage chart
  2. Ibuprofen (Motrin, Children’s Advil Suspension) – This medicine is an effective alternative at relieving fever. For older children and adults ibuprofen tablets (Nuprin, Advil) are available over-the-counter. Dosage chart
  3. Mycitracin, Polysporin Ointment – This is used for treating cuts, scrapes and superficial skin infections.
  4. Syrup of Ipecac – This medicine is used to induce vomiting (an emetic) in case of certain accidental poisonings. It should only be used on the direct advice of a physician. Vomiting should not be induced for all types of poisonings. Please see the section on poisonings.
  5. Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) – This antihistamine medication is used for allergic reactions and itching. Dosage chart
  6. Infalyte or Pedialyte – This carbohydrate and salt solution is used to treat vomiting and diarrhea in children.
  7. The following health aids are useful: Bandaids, gauze 4X4’s, thermometer, tweezers, scissors and white tape.
  8. If your child has a history of chronic ear infection, you may want to keep Auralgan Otic drops (or equivalent) – These deaden ear pain when placed in the ear. If your child has ear tubes (pressure equalizing tubes) or has an ear infection with pus or blood draining from the ear, you should not use Auralgan, but should contact your physician.