Taking medication / Bowel movement

Author:  aria Yiallouros, Gesche Tallen MD, PhD, English Translation:  Hannah McRae, Last modification: 2020/05/14 https://kinderkrebsinfo.de/doi/e74003

It is important during treatment to have a regular schedule of taking medication such as pills, liquids, or mixtures while at home.

  • At discharge, make sure not to go home without a medication plan and the necessary prescriptions, including one for a pill cutter.
  • Make sure that the child stays on a regular and exact schedule for taking his or her medication.
  • Cytostatic drugs in pill form (such as Thioguanine) should only be handled wearing gloves. Also a mask should be worn while cutting the pills; pills should only be cut using a pill cutter.
  • Cytostatic drugs should not be taken with milk or milk products in general. Please ask questions if any problems or uncertainties arise during the administration of medication.
  • Do not administer any other medications and do not stray from the medication schedule without first consulting the caregiver team.

Important advice

Avoid medications that inhibit blood clotting, such as acetyl salicylic acid (Aspirin) or Ibuprofen. Use other medications instead, such as limited doses of Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) after you consulted the caregiver team.

The administration of vitamin supplements, homeopathic remedies, healing plants and herbs as part of alternative medicine methods or special diets should first be discussed with the caregiver team.

Bowel movement

Taking medication can lead to constipation.

  • Be aware of regular bowel movements (at least every 2-3 days)
  • Be aware of the amount, shape, and color of the stool. Take note of any peculiarities and inform the caregiver team accordingly.