Year : 2020

Volume : Volume 11

Issue : Issue 1

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Hitendra.R.Jain.
jainhiten25@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  To assess parental knowledge, attitude and practices followed by parents in the use of Pediatric liquid medications (PLM) including common medications used, knowledge of dosages, hidden sugar components, frequency of consumption, side effects and impact on oral health.  Material and Methods: The sample comprised of the parents of 320 children in the age group of 3 to 8 years, visiting the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry in a dental college in Northern Maharashtra region. The questionnaire covered topics on knowledge of the parents about the liquid medicaments and the attitudes, and practices followed in their administration Results: Around 256 (80%) parents said that their child preferred PLM’s over tablets. Only 8.2% of parents believe that PLM’s has side effects on consumption. Most of the parents (78%) shown interest to get a knowledge related to sugar-free medication and precaution taken after liquid sugar-containing medication Conclusions:  Parental knowledge about PLM’s use is confined and limited. Inadvertent and injudicious use of PLM’s should be avoided. Parents have shown positive attitude in relation to obtaining further information about PLM. Parents should be well informed about PLM’s proper usage, side effects and alternate options available.

Keywords: Dental caries, parents, pediatric liquid medication, sugar.