Pharmacotherapy

.docx

School

United States University**We aren't endorsed by this school

Course

MSN 570

Subject

Medicine

Date

Dec 31, 2024

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Uploaded by MegaGazelle4636

The 2-month immunization schedule is crucial for protecting infants from a range of serious diseases. At this visit, infants receive multiple vaccines, including DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and acellular Pertussis), Polio, Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), Pneumococcal, Rotavirus, the second dose of Hepatitis B, and possibly an RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccine, depending on the mother's vaccination status. These vaccinations are essential in building immunity at a vulnerable stage of life, as infants are particularly susceptible to infections in their early months. Combination vaccines like Pediarix and Pentacel help reduce thenumber of injections, providing a less stressful experience for both the child and parents while ensuring effective protection (El‐Beyrouty et al., 2022).At 12 months, the child receives several additional vaccines, including MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), Varicella (Chickenpox), the first dose of Hepatitis A, the flu vaccine, and the third dose of polio, if not yet received. These vaccines are scheduled after the first year of life to ensure maternal antibodies have diminished, making the child more responsive to vaccines like MMR and Varicella. The CDC recommends early administration of the PPSV23 vaccine for children at higher risk for pneumococcal disease (El‐Beyrouty et al., 2022). High-risk groups include those with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or sickle cell disease, as well as children with immunocompromised conditions like HIV or cancer. Studies show early vaccination significantly reduces invasive pneumococcal disease in these populations.St. John’s wort is an herb known for its interaction with oral contraceptives and other medications. It can induce the CYP3A4 enzyme, reducing the efficacy of contraceptives and increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy. It also reduces warfarin levels, potentially increasing the risk of clot formation. Echinacea, a plant used for respiratory infections, has a long

history of medicinal use, particularly among Native Americans (Kakouri et al., 2024). While it is considered safe for children aged 2 to 11, it can cause allergic reactions such as rashes in some children. Additionally, echinacea may interact with medications or exacerbate allergic conditions,so it's important to consult a healthcare provider before administering it to children (Kakouri et al., 2024).ReferencesEl‐Beyrouty, C., Buckler, R., Mitchell, M., Phillips, S., & Groome, S. (2022). Pneumococcal vaccination—A literature review and practice guideline update. Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy, 42(9), 724-740. https://accpjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/phar.2723Kakouri, E., Talebi, M., & Tarantilis, P. A. (2024). Echinacea spp.: The cold-fighter herbal remedy?. Pharmacological Research-Modern Chinese Medicine, 100397. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667142524000411