Tricks for giving medicine to children

Different tricks for giving medicine to children

It is unproductive to try to convince a two-year-old child about the advisability of having to take a medicine to cure his illness, so it will be useful to opt for those medicines that taste better and need a lower dosage, those that are easy to use. swallow or, even better, that they are administered by other routes than the mouth, such as suppositories.

Therefore, prior to explaining the recommendations or tricks to give medicine to children and babies, it is convenient to know the different routes of administration that our pediatrician can prescribe for treatment at home:

Routes of administration of the drug

• ORAL: it is the most common and safest. The main pharmaceutical forms that are administered orally are: tablets, capsules, dragees, syrup, solutions, suspensions and granules. The tablets should always be swallowed whole, unless they are scored, as the active ingredient would not be absorbed properly. The capsules are to be swallowed whole, except as directed by the package leaflet. To prepare an extemporaneous suspension, mineral water must be added up to the mark, but in two steps; first a little and shake and then complete with water up to the total measure. Effervescent tablets are named for their formulation with an acid and an alkali that react when dissolved in water, producing small bubbles of carbon dioxide that break the tablet and facilitate the dissolution of the active principle.

Why Do Children Refuse Medicine? Understanding the Resistance

Children often resist taking medicine for various reasons, including:

• Unpleasant Taste – Many medications have a bitter or chalky taste that children dislike. 
• Fear of Side Effects – If a child previously experienced nausea, vomiting, or discomfort after taking medicine, they may resist future doses. 
• Lack of Understanding – Younger children may not understand why they need to take medicine and might see it as an unnecessary or even frightening experience. 
• Loss of Control – Forcing medication can make children feel powerless, leading to increased resistance and anxiety.

Understanding these reasons can help parents develop strategies that make medication time smoother and less stressful.

Best Ways to Mask the Taste of Medicine

If taste is the main problem, consider these solutions:

• Mix with Food or Drinks – Some liquid medications can be mixed with juice, yogurt, or applesauce to mask the flavor (always check with a doctor or pharmacist first). 
• Use a Flavored Syrup – Some pharmacies offer flavoring options for liquid medicines, making them more palatable for kids. 
• Chill the Medication – A cold liquid numbs the taste buds slightly, reducing sensitivity to strong flavors. Refrigerating a medication (if allowed) may help. 
• Offer a Chaser – Giving a spoonful of honey, syrup, or a flavored drink immediately after the medicine can help remove the aftertaste. 
• Administer Through a Syringe – Placing medicine on the back of the tongue or inside the cheek (avoiding direct contact with taste buds) can make swallowing easier.

How to Keep Children Calm During Medicine Time

Parents often struggle with keeping their child relaxed when it's time to take medicine. Here are some effective strategies: 

• Give Choices – Allowing children to choose between a spoon or syringe, or selecting a drink to wash it down, gives them a sense of control. 
• Turn It into a Game – Using a toy doctor set, pretending to give medicine to a stuffed animal first, or playing a countdown game can ease anxiety. 
• Use Positive Reinforcement – Encouraging words, small rewards (like stickers or extra playtime), or praising their bravery can make the experience more positive. 
• Explain in Simple Terms – Telling kids that the medicine will help them "get strong like a superhero" or "fight the germs" makes it more relatable.

How to Give Medicine to a Child Who Flat-Out Refuses

When all else fails, these approaches may help: 

• Use a Medicine Dispenser – A pacifier-style dispenser or a syringe aimed toward the inside of the cheek can help avoid spills and gag reflexes. 
• Give in Small Amounts – If possible, divide the dose into smaller sips or spoonfuls to make it easier to swallow. 
• Mix with Soft Foods – If approved by the doctor, some crushed pills can be mixed with yogurt or pudding. 
• Try the "Hold and Give" Method – For very resistant children, gently wrapping them in a blanket (if necessary) and quickly administering the dose can be effective while minimizing stress.

Mistakes to Avoid When Giving Medicine to Children

Even well-meaning parents can make mistakes when giving medicine. Avoid these common errors: 

• Using the Wrong Measuring Tool – Always use a medicine syringe or measuring cup instead of a kitchen spoon to ensure accurate dosing. 
• Crushing Pills Without Approval – Some medications should never be crushed, as it may alter their effectiveness or cause irritation. 
• Giving Medicine with Milk – Some antibiotics and medications interact poorly with dairy, reducing absorption. Always check before mixing with milk. 
• Forcing or Yelling – This can create fear and make future doses even harder to give. A calm and reassuring approach is best.

When to Ask a Doctor for Help

If a child persistently refuses medicine, consider: 

• Asking for an Alternative Form – Some medications come in chewable, dissolvable, or liquid versions that may be easier to take. 
• Switching to a Different Flavor – Some pharmacies offer custom flavoring services for liquid medicine. 
• Checking for an Injectable Option – In extreme cases, doctors may recommend an injection instead of oral medication if the child cannot tolerate it.

By combining patience, creativity, and the right approach, parents can make medication time a more positive experience for both them and their child.