Question
A child took a packet of expired fever-reducing medicine due to a fever. If the medication appears to have no visible changes, what measures should be taken?
Answer
If the medication appears unchanged, it may simply have reduced efficacy. It is recommended to ensure the child has ample water intake to promote the metabolism of the medication within the body. Also, closely monitor the child for symptoms such as abdominal pain or diarrhea, indicating gastrointestinal discomfort. If no such symptoms are present, generally there should be no serious issues. Additionally, arrange the child’s diet appropriately, increase calcium-rich foods, and encourage outdoor activities and sun exposure to promote calcium absorption. In the future, always carefully check the expiration date of medication before giving it to a child.