Over the counter cough and cold medication

Do not give over the counter cough and cold medicine to children 3 years and younger. This includes decongestants, cough suppressants, and expectorants.

Studies have shown that these medications  do not only relieve symptoms in kids of this age. They also make them dizzy, drowsy or hyperactive. They  can also cause serious health problems such as heart palpitations, abnormal heart rhythm , seizures or  high blood pressure.

Some pediatricians  don’t recommend giving over the counter cough and cold medicine to children younger than 12 years due  to  findings of these studies and the lack of evidence that show that these  medications are effective.

It is important to get your doctor’s advise before giving a new medication to children. You should not give aspirin to your toddler because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome. This is rare but fatal medical condition.

You can give cough and cold medications to children  between the ages of 4 to 6. However only when is specified by the doctor. Children 7 and older can be given over the counter cough and cold medication but parents need to follow the dosage carefully.