Helping Your Child with Narcolepsy Get Used to Taking Medicine

Taking medicine daily can be a big change for any child, especially for those with narcolepsy who are already navigating a complex condition. It might feel overwhelming at first for both of you, but with a little guidance and patience, you can help your child become comfortable with their new routine.

Keep reading for practical tips to make medication time a smoother, more positive experience – from setting a consistent schedule to making the physical act of swallowing pills easier, all while focusing on open communication and positive reinforcement.

The importance of a consistent schedule

Consistency is very important when it comes to taking medicine. Your child needs to take their medicine at the same time every day. This helps the medicine work well. It also helps your child remember to take it.¹

Here are some ways to help set a consistent schedule:^1-3

• Use a calendar or chart. Mark off each day as your child takes their medicine. This can be a fun activity. It gives your child a sense of control.
• Use a pill organizer. This small box has compartments for each day of the week. You can fill it once a week. This makes it easy for your child to see if they have taken their medicine.
• Set an alarm on a phone or a clock. The alarm can remind your child when it is time to take their medicine. It is helpful to link medicine time to another daily activity. For example, your child can take their medicine right after they brush their teeth in the morning.

Help with swallowing pills

Many children have trouble swallowing pills. This can be a big challenge. But there are many ways to make it easier. You can start with something small. Try practicing with tiny candies or sprinkles. Put a sprinkle on your child's tongue. Have them take a drink of water. This helps them get used to the feeling of swallowing something other than food.³

Here are some other tips for swallowing pills:³

• Pill swallowing aids – A special cup or straw can help. These aids direct the water and pill to the back of the throat. This makes swallowing easier.
• The "Pop Bottle" method – Fill a plastic water bottle with water. Put the pill on your tongue. Then, seal your lips tightly around the bottle opening. Take a big gulp of water. The suction helps you swallow the pill. This method has been shown to be effective for some people.
• The "Lean Forward" method – Put the pill on your tongue. Take a sip of water. Bend your head forward toward your chest. The pill will float to the back of your throat. Swallow the pill and water at the same time.

Practice positive reinforcement

Celebrate small victories with your child. Give them praise when they take their medicine without a fuss. Positive reinforcement can be a powerful tool. It helps your child feel good about their efforts. You can also offer a small reward. This could be a sticker or a few extra minutes of screen time.³

Open communication is key

Talk openly with your child about their medicine. Explain why it is important to take it at the same time every day. Tell them how it helps them feel better. Listen to their feelings and concerns.³

Narcolepsy can be an emotional journey. Your support and understanding are crucial. Remind your child that they are not alone. There are many other children with narcolepsy. Your doctor or a support group can also provide help. Remember, you are a team. Together, you can manage this condition.