Background
Although very little scientific data exists on the efficacy and side effects of complementary and alternative medicines, their
profile and availability is increasing. Use among Irish children is unknown.
Aims
To determine the nature and prevalence of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) use in our paediatric population.
Methods
Parental questionnaires were distributed in 13 paediatric settings over a 4-month period.
Results
There were 57% of parents reported using CAM for their child. Use was significantly higher in the 2–4 years age group (34/105,
32%, P = 0.005). The commonest medicinal CAMs used were vitamins (88%), fish oils (27%) and Echinacea (26%). The commonest non-medicinal
CAMs used were homeopathy (16%) and craniosacral therapy (14%). Use varied between paediatric specialties, with the highest
in neurological patients (23/25, 92%, P = 0.005). Only 13% of parents had informed their Paediatrician of their child’s CAM use.
Conclusions
More than half of the children surveyed had used some form of CAM, usually without their Paediatrician’s knowledge.
Keywords Alternative medicine - Children - Complementary medicine - Irish - Paediatrician