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Our grandson has a seizure disorder that require him to take anticonvulsant medications every day. Before the meds, he broke two bones during a seizure. The problem now is he just can't seem to swallow the pill. If we crush it up and put it in yogurt or applesauce, he says it tastes terrible and spits it out. Has anyone else run into this problem? Why can't they figure out a way to get meds into kids without so much trauma?
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Pills that taste bad or are too hard to swallow can be difficult to get down even for adults. But when it comes to giving meds with similar problems to children, the task can be impossible.
Scientists have started finding alternative ways to administer medications. One of those ways is called intranasal atomized medications. As the word intranasal suggests, the medication is delivered into the nose. Atomized tells us the drug is broken down into tiny particles that are sprayed into the nasal passages.
The drug still has to be sprayed twice (once on each side) but the amount of medication that is absorbed is much greater than with nose (nasal) drops. The child tolerates intranasal atomized medications well because a special device called a mucosal atomizer is used. This tool is inserted into the nasal opening and delivers the drug quickly and easily.
Intranasal atomized medications can be used for drugs that must be given over a long period of time (e.g., daily seizure medication). They can be used for more immediate problems like nosebleeds or a narcotic drug overdose. Orthopedic surgeons like this method of drug delivery to manage pain and for sedation before and during surgery.
Intranasal medication for children has not received approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) yet. That doesn't mean physicians can't use this method of drug delivery.
Proper equipment must be used by health care professionals who are trained and skilled in using this form of drug delivery. With continued studies enough evidence will eventually be gathered to support FDA approval. In the meantime, you will have to ask your pediatrician (or the prescribing physician) about the use of this application method for your grandson.
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*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. |
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