Question
A newborn baby has experienced symptoms of startle, and the parents are considering giving the child traditional Chinese medicine sedative pellets as a treatment. They inquire whether this medication has severe side effects or hazards for infants.
Answer
For newborns, taking sedative pellets may not be the best choice. The brain nervous system of newborns is not fully developed, and they may exhibit startle reflexes, which are often related to calcium deficiency rather than actual fear. It is recommended to undergo a medical examination first to determine if there is a calcium deficiency, and consider using calcium supplements and Vitamin D suitable for infants, rather than sedative pills. If diagnosed with a startle reaction, other medications such as Amber Pellets may be needed. Generally, sedative pellets can be used for infants, but it is advisable to use them under a doctor’s guidance and pay attention to dosage; for a full-month-old infant, taking half a pellet per dose is safe. Parents should also spend more time with their child, speaking in soft tones to the child, which can have a soothing effect even if the child is too young to understand.