Alcohol in Common Medications May Be Impacting Children

Alcohol in Common Medications May Be Impacting Children

Many people don’t know that alcohol is actually a very common ingredient in many over-the-counter medications such as cough syrups, cold medication, and even liquid vitamin supplements. The alcohol acts as a way to suspend the active parts of the medication in the surrounding liquid, or sometimes as a preservative to keep the medication fresh. It’s a common strategy, and one that works well—for adults, that is. New reports from parents and doctors are questioning the use of alcohol in products that may be administered to children.

In one recent case, a mother had to call for paramedics to come to her house after her 11-year-old child began having a seizure in the shower. After being delivered to the hospital, X-Rays and other scans were all negative, but a blood test showed an increased blood alcohol level. The family traced the alcohol to a liquid vitamin supplement that the girl had been taking. Though alcohol is an effective component of many medications, care should always be taken when administering any medication to children—especially liquid medicine that may contain some level of alcohol.

It can be hard to know what drugs are safe to give to children. Thankfully, there is good help available. Please don’t hesitate to call Seabrook for any and all drug and alcohol related questions. We’re experts in drugs, alcohol, addiction,and recovery. At Seabrook, we specialize in customizing our treatment plans to individual patient’s needs, so you know the help you’re getting is right for you or a loved one. Seabrook has rehabilitation centers in New Jersey (NJ), Pennsylvania (PA), and an outpatient center in New York (NY). Contact Seabrook today for any questions about alcohol, medications, and safety.