Heading back to school is exciting for parents and children, but it’s not all about shopping for backpacks and meeting new teachers. Before your child goes into the classroom this month, there are several steps to take regarding immunizations and school medications.

1. Update Immunizations

Before school starts, check with your child’s doctor or pediatrician and make sure all immunizations are up-to-date. For children entering grades 1-12, the Arkansas State Board of Health requires vaccines for Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis, Polio, Measles/Mumps/Rubella, Hepatitis B and others. Arkansas public school requirements can be found online at Healthy.Arkansas.gov.

Schools will require an updated immunization record, which you can acquire from your doctor’s office or the Arkansas Department of Health. It is important for you to keep a record at home as well. If your child needs an immunization, keep in mind that most pharmacies in central Arkansas can provide immunizations, including an annual flu shot, to children over the age of 7.

2. Test New Medications and Refill Old Ones

If your child is starting a new medication, healthcare professionals recommend that he or she begin taking it before the school year begins. This will allow time for the medication to start working, will help you and your child develop a routine, and will give you a chance to monitor for any adverse effects.

If your child is already on a medication, visit your doctor before school starts to make sure the dose does not need to be adjusted. It is important to make sure the prescription is still valid, as some prescriptions—like those for ADD/ADHD medications—are only good for six months from the date written.

If your child has been diagnosed with a behavioral issue such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), remember that daily medications should be taken in the morning with breakfast. Keep in mind that some children may require an additional immediate-release medication to get through homework or sports practices.

3. Ask Questions and Monitor Side Effects

What are possible side effects? Parents with children on these medications will ask “Is my child going to have trouble sleeping, or will it affect his or her appetite?” You’ll need to monitor whether they are eating enough and still growing. If they have trouble going to sleep at night, consider talking with the prescribing healthcare professional about changing any evening medications or dosages.

Parents will also ask “How do I know the medication is working?” If the child can get through daily activities including homework, it is the appropriate medication. If not, you should talk to their doctor about additional or different medications.

If your child needs an over-the-counter medication, such as a decongestant, consult with your pharmacist. Just like other prescription medications, ADD /ADHD medications can interfere with these OTC medications and cause serious adverse effects requiring medical attention.

4. Communicate with the School

Any medications that will need to be taken while at school during the day must be in a labeled bottle from your pharmacy. Schools require medications to be kept in the office and often times, a Medication Authorization and Release form will need to be filled out and kept on file in the school office.

Other medications that may need to be kept at school are: inhalers, which are typically used for asthma attacks; EpiPens, used for any type of anaphylactic reaction, including stings and food allergies to nuts, milk or dairy; or, migraine medications for frequent debilitating headaches that can be in conjunction with nausea and vomiting, or light sensitivity.

Aubrey Zimmer Harton, is a co-owner and Pharmacist-in-Charge of Cornerstone Pharmacy in west Little Rock. Aubrey and her husband Jay have three active children, Adeline,10, John, 8, and Emily, 7.