Medications to Pack



  • Infant Tylenol and Motrin - know beforehand under what circumstances you would choose which to use.
  • Pediatric cough syrup and/or expectorant.
  • Syringe-type dropper or medicine spoon.
  • Prescription antibiotic in powder form (pharmacist will give you pre-measured distilled water to go with it. Mix exactly as directed).
  • Glycerin suppositories for constipation in infants.
  • Ask your doctor about prescription anti-emetic infant suppositories in case your child has serious vomiting.

  • Pedialyte replacement for dehydration or diarrhea. There is a powdered (packet) brand that you can reconstitute called Kaolectrolyte.
  • Lice shampoo and comb.
  • Prescription cream for scabies.
  • Lotrimin AF for diaper yeast infections. The tube will say it's for athlete's foot (and it is) but it is a non-prescription anti-fungal recommended by pediatricians.
  • Hydrocortisone cream ( half or one percent) for rashes.
  • Preferred diaper rash cream.
  • Thermometer.

[Ed. Note: The above list is especially useful for China adoptions. Be sure to check with your support group members, pediatrician, and agency for items recommended for the country from which you are adopting.]