We are a greatly overmedicated society. Many people believe
that there is a drug for every symptom. Some health care providers prescribe a
drug during every office visit. These habits can convey to our young people
that drugs are the answer to life's discomforts. More than $4 billion per year
is spent on over-the-counter drugs for fever, colds, and coughs--many of them
unnecessary. Drugs for vomiting and diarrhea are largely ineffective, and
these symptoms respond best to dietary changes. Remember that mild symptoms do
not require any medication, and moderate symptoms often respond to home
remedies. Drugs are not essential to recovery from most illnesses. Life is not
a drug-deficient state.
Antibiotics Ineffective for
Viral Infections
- More than 90 percent of infections, including colds,
coughs, croup, and diarrhea, are caused by viruses. Antibiotics ("wonder
drugs") kill bacteria. Unfortunately, antibiotics have no effect on viruses.
They neither shorten the course of viral illnesses nor reduce symptoms.
- Repeated use of antibiotics increases the likelihood of an
allergic reaction. 5 percent to 10 percent of adults are allergic to
penicillin.
- All antibiotics have additional side effects, such as
wiping out your normal protective bacteria and replacing them with bacteria
resistant to the antibiotic.
- Fortunately, the body's own antibodies can destroy
viruses.
- Use home remedies or nonprescription medicines for the
symptoms of viral illnesses.
Nonprescription Medicines for
Common Symptoms
- When your child is sick, your goal is to make him as
comfortable as possible. If your child is playing and sleeping normally, do
not give nonprescription medicines.
- Give medicines only for symptoms that are causing
discomfort, disrupting sleep, or really bothering your child, such as
coughing spasms.
- Medicines for symptoms can only partially relieve those
symptoms (for example, a fever will be lowered but not to a normal
temperature). Medicines for symptoms do not shorten the course of an
illness.
- Nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines can also have
side effects.
