[Indications and contraindications for analgesics and antibiotics in pediatric dentistry]

A general overview upon most used products in odontopediatrics is presented; the factors which influence the determination of the adequate doses in children and some useful recommendations in dental clinical practice are described. The most prescribed products in pediatric odontology are summarized into two groups: a) benzodiazepine, for anxiety and lidocaine, aspirin and acetaminophen, dipirone and naproxen, for pain; and b) penicillin, erythromycin, for treatment of infections. Doses, pharmacologic effects, clinical indications, side effects and contraindications of the chemicals mentioned are described. Also, the article presents some of the aspects which justify the use, in our country, of certain medicaments prescribed in other nations reporting, the recommendations in order to prevent the use of other chemicals because of their lack of therapeutical advantages over the ones of first choice.