According to pediatric expert Dr. Ravi Malik Gupta, both the Indian Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly discourage the use of such medicines in children. He explains that these drugs offer nothing more than a temporary fix, while posing risks that may silently accumulate over time.
One commonly used medicine, containing cyproheptadine, is especially concerning. Dr. Gupta notes that the drug can trigger irritability, light headedness, confusion, headaches, and even allergic reactions in children. More worryingly, long term use may cause liver strain, turning a minor eating issue into a serious health concern.
Instead of chasing quick fixes, experts encourage parents to adopt natural, child friendly strategies. Dr. Gupta highlights the importance of creating a positive relationship with food, rather than treating mealtimes as a battlefield.
He suggests offering colorful, varied meals, avoiding force feeding, and keeping children away from screens during meals, which often steal their attention and dull their appetite.
He adds that sleep deprivation is a surprisingly common reason behind low appetite. Ensuring children get adequate rest may naturally boost their interest in food.
Above all, Dr. Gupta advises parents to cultivate a calm, pleasant eating atmosphere, allowing children to eat at their own pace. When a child feels comfortable at the table, he says, healthy eating becomes a habit, not a hassle.
If a child’s poor appetite becomes a persistent issue, parents should consult a qualified pediatrician. A proper medical evaluation can uncover underlying causes and offer tailored guidance, instead of relying on medicines that may do more harm than good.
