Kannur: An eight-month-old infant from Pazhayangadi was hospitalized in critical condition after being mistakenly given the wrong medication by a local pharmacy. However, hospital authorities and the child’s father confirmed on Thursday that the baby’s condition has now stabilized, and he is showing signs of recovery. Meanwhile, police have filed a case against the pharmacists at Khadeeja Medicals in Pazhayangadi.

The incident occurred last Saturday when the parents took their fever-stricken child to a nearby clinic. The doctor prescribed Calpol syrup for treatment, but the pharmacy mistakenly provided Calpol drops instead. Not realizing the disparity, the parents gave the drops in a dosage that was the same as the syrup, unknowingly over-medicating their child.

At first, the baby seemed to be recovering, but after a few days, he developed further symptoms, so the parents went back to the clinic. After further medical evaluation, tests revealed that the incorrect medication had severely impacted the child’s liver function. The baby was then rushed to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a private hospital in Kannur for emergency treatment.

According to hospital officials, while the baby was admitted in critical condition, his health has since improved. "When he was admitted, he was in a critical condition. We have made some progress, but we are keeping his liver function very closely. If the treatment does not respond as expected, then we may need to consider a liver transplant," said Kannur Aster MIMS Hospital's Dr. Nandhakumar.

The infant’s father also claimed that the pharmacy staff reacted rudely when confronted about the mistake. "Instead of acknowledging their error, they dismissed my concerns and told me to file a case if I wanted," he alleged.

Following a formal complaint from the parents, the Pazhayangadi police, along with the district drug authorities, have launched an investigation into the matter. Authorities have confirmed that the pharmacy actually issued the incorrect medicine, and a case has been formally lodged.

Local youth groups, such as DYFI and the Youth Congress, also organized protests calling for stern action against the staff of the pharmacy, calling for accountability and more stringent regulations to avoid such accidents in the future.

Difference Between Calpol Drops and Calpol Syrup:

Calpol is a popular children's medication to lower fever and alleviate pain due to colds, flu, headaches, and body pains. It is available in two forms, Calpol Drops and Calpol Syrup, with major differences in concentration and dosage.

Key Differences:

• Calpol Drops (Peppermint): Very concentrated, administered in small quantities through a dropper. Suitable for infants and small children.

• Calpol Syrup (Strawberry): Less concentrated, measured in milliliters through a spoon or cup, for older children.

Caution:

• Avoid mixing with other paracetamol-containing medicines to avoid overdose and liver injury.

• Always take the right form and dosage as directed to avoid complications.

They are both safe in general but might produce mild side effects such as nausea or indigestion. Severe reactions require immediate medical care.^[1,2]

References:

1. https://www.1mg.com/drugs/calpol-paediatric-drops-peppermint-582967?wpsrc=Google+Organic+Search

2. https://www.1mg.com/drugs/calpol-250mg-paediatric-oral-suspension-strawberry-581957?wpsrc=Google+Organic+Search

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)