If you thought getting your child to eat their vegetables was hard, getting them to take medication can be even harder. Nobody likes taking medication, but it’s important to encourage your child to take their medication as you have been told by their doctor. There are a few reasons why getting your child to take their epilepsy medication can be hard:
SOLUTION: It is often best to tie giving your child's medicine to something you regularly do each day. For many families, that is eating breakfast and dinner. Since medication is better tolerated if taken with food, taking medicines at meal times will help protect against tummy upset.
SOLUTION: Whether you are crushing the medication into your child’s food or asking them to swallow tablets, try to get them into the routine of doing this just before a treat, like eating pudding. You can also try giving them a nonfood treat such as 20 minutes play or screen time to reward them when they have taken their medication without making a fuss. Show them pills are easy to take, by taking vitamins yourself, when they take their medications.
SOLUTION: It is important to help your child learn about their epilepsy; the more they understand the more likely they are to take their medicine. Different doesn't always mean bad, so try to talk to them about epilepsy in a positive way. Make sure they know medication can make them feel better. Show them it is normal to take pills.
SOLUTION: Some medicines may be discounted for people that need help; talk to your doctor about prescription and co-pay assistance that can help make medicines more affordable.
Remember, whatever it takes to make your child comfortable in their medication routine is critical to their health.
SOLUTION: Get involved, write a list of questions you want answered when you see their doctor. Ask the doctor to explain what is available, how they are different, and what side effects might happen. Reach a treatment plan together that you fully understand.
