By Dr. Prashanth Gowda – Best Pediatrician in HSR Layout
In every household, a bottle of paracetamol or a strip of antibiotics is often considered a must-have in the medicine cabinet. When children develop a fever, cough, or cold, many parents instinctively reach for these medications—sometimes without consulting a doctor.
But is this safe?
Dr. Prashanth Gowda, recognized as the Best Child Doctor in HSR Layout, shares crucial insights on the risks of self-medication and why professional consultation is essential for pediatric care.
Paracetamol: Simple Yet Not Always Safe
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is one of the most commonly used medicines for fever and mild pain in children. While it’s generally safe when used in the correct dose, overdosing or repeated use without medical advice can cause serious complications like liver damage.
Dr. Prashanth Gowda advises:
- Always use a pediatric dose based on weight, not age alone.
- Avoid using adult paracetamol syrup or tablets.
- Never combine it with other medications that may also contain paracetamol.
Even a medicine as common as paracetamol needs careful attention and the guidance of a pediatrician.
Please watch this video for more info :
Antibiotics: Not for Every Fever or Cold
Parents often assume that if a child has a persistent cold or fever, antibiotics are the solution. This is one of the most dangerous myths in pediatric care.
Key facts from the Best Pediatrician in HSR Layout:
- Most childhood infections like colds, coughs, and fevers are viral, not bacterial. Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
- Unnecessary use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat.
- It can also disturb your child’s gut flora and weaken their immunity.
Only a pediatrician can determine whether antibiotics are truly needed—and if so, which one, and for how long.
Why Children Need Specialized Care
Children are not just “small adults.” Their bodies respond differently to medication, and their immunity and organs are still developing. That’s why Dr. Prashanth Gowda, known as the Best Child Doctor in HSR Layout, insists on personalized treatment plans that factor in your child’s unique health profile.
When to Consult a Pediatrician Immediately
- Persistent fever for more than 2 days
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Rashes or allergic reactions
- Breathing difficulty
- Sudden behavioral changes or drowsiness
Self-medication delays proper diagnosis and could worsen the situation. Early consultation ensures faster recovery and prevents complications.
Trust the Expert – Dr. Prashanth Gowda
As the Best Pediatrician in HSR Layout, Dr. Prashanth Gowda brings years of experience, child-friendly care, and evidence-based medicine. His clinic is equipped to handle everything from common infections to chronic conditions with compassion and clarity.
Final Takeaway:
Never self-medicate your child. What may seem like a minor fever or cold could be part of something bigger—or it may not need medication at all. Trust the guidance of a qualified pediatrician to make the right decision for your child’s health.