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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
An upset stomach in a child can be distressing for both the parents or caregivers and the child. If vomiting and diarrhea are present, hydration and a diet focused on easily digestible foods are key to aiding in recovery. In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medication to treat severe vomiting. Certain over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are also available for children to help relieve mild nausea or indigestion not caused by a virus. However, in many cases, it is usually better to focus on supportive care and rest rather than medications to manage the symptoms of an upset stomach in kids. Can Children Take Medicine for Nausea and Vomiting? The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend the use of anti-nausea drugs in children. However, in more severe cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to manage vomiting. Zofran (ondansetron) is a commonly known anti-nausea drug in people undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. It is also used off-label (used for an indication not approved by the FDA) to manage vomiting in children with gastroenteritis (stomach virus or stomach flu). One oral dose of ondansetron may help minimize vomiting, intravenous fluids administration, and hospital admissions in children with the stomach flu. Antidiarrheals like Pepto Bismol (bismuth salicylate) and Imodium (loperamide) are not recommended for children with a stomach virus. However, they can help if your child is dealing with mild nausea or indigestion that is not due to a virus. Pepto Bismol is approved for use in children 12 years and older. Pepto Kids is specially formulated for children ages 2 to 12 since the original formula is unsafe for children in that age group. Still, you should always consult your child's healthcare provider before giving them any medications. How to Safely Treat an Upset Stomach Stomach upsets are common. Typically, the child recovers quickly and without severe problems. Mild symptoms can usually be safely treated at home with supportive care. If vomiting and diarrhea occur, treatment should focus on rehydrating and preventing dehydration. Oral rehydration beverages, such as Pedialyte or Ceralyte, are recommended. These contain the right mix of salt, sugar, and minerals. Give your child small sips every few minutes. Plain water is not usually recommended, as it will not provide the electrolytes needed. For older kids, you may give hydrating drinks such as: Frozen electrolyte popsiclesGinger aleElectrolyte drinks that aren't too sugary, such as PedialyteBroths It's also common for children to have decreased or no appetite during an upset stomach. Avoid high-fat foods at first because these are more difficult to digest. When your child feels up to eating, start with small amounts at first. Give easy-to-digest foods such as: Carbohydrates (rice, wheat, potatoes, bread)YogurtLean meatsFruitsVegetables You can also contact your
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