Beware Parents! Paediatrician Warns Against This Common Mistake With Kids’ Syrups (Image Credits: iStock)
Have you ever held onto a bottle of syrup for your child, thinking it’s perfectly fine to use as long as it’s within the expiry date? Turns out, that might not be the case! Dr Pawan Mandaviya, a Consultant Pediatrician and Newborn Specialist at Kiran Multispeciality Hospital, Surat, recently took to Instagram to share a common mistake many parents are making with their kids’ liquid medications. He warns parents that once opened syrups should be used within four weeks—even if the printed expiry date is far away. But why? Let’s check how this simple oversight could put your child’s health at risk.
Dr Mandaviya recently took to Instagram to shed light on this issue, and his advice is something every parent needs to know. In his post, Dr Mandaviya explained, “You should not use a syrup after opening it for more than 4 weeks.” While the printed expiry date might still be months or even years away, the paediatrician emphasized that once a syrup is exposed to air, it becomes vulnerable to contamination. This is true even if the bottle appears perfectly normal.
Why This Happens
There are three key reasons why syrups should not be used beyond four weeks of opening:
1. Contamination Risk
Syrups, especially liquid medications, can become contaminated with bacteria or mould when exposed to air. This can happen even if the bottle is tightly closed after use. Consuming contaminated syrup can lead to illnesses in children, particularly those with weaker immune systems.
2. Preservative Effectiveness
Dr Mandaviya highlighted that the preservatives in syrups lose their effectiveness over time once the bottle is opened. Without sufficient preservatives, the medication becomes more prone to microbial growth, rendering it unsafe.
3. Degradation of Quality
Over time, the quality of the syrup can deteriorate, leading to changes in its taste, texture, or colour. This degradation can make the medication unpalatable for children and even affect its potency, potentially reducing its effectiveness in treating the intended condition.
What Parents Should Do
To avoid these risks, Dr Mandaviya recommends taking a few simple precautions:
- Mark the Opening Date: When you open a bottle of syrup, write the date on it to track how long it has been in use.
- Discard After 4 Weeks: Even if there is syrup left, dispose of the bottle four weeks after opening to ensure your child’s safety.
- Follow Storage Instructions: Always store syrups as per the instructions on the label. Most require storage in a cool, dry place or even refrigeration.
- Consult Your Doctor or Pharmacist: If you are unsure about a medication’s safety or how long it can be used after opening, seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Expert Advice for Parents
Parents often overlook the fact that medications have different safety guidelines once opened, said Dr Mandaviya. “It’s crucial to follow these guidelines to protect your child’s health. Don’t assume that just because the syrup looks fine, it’s safe to use. The invisible changes are what can make it harmful.”
While syrups are effective tools for treating illnesses, neglecting proper usage guidelines can do more harm than good. Next time you open a bottle of syrup, remember Dr Mandaviya’s advice: stick to the four-week rule and ensure your child’s health and safety are never compromised.
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