title: Over-the-counter cough and cold medications in children: are they helpful?
abstract: Over-the-counter cough/cold medications are commonly used in children. Recent recommendations by the Food and Drug Administration and changes to product labeling by cough/cold product manufacturers have reduced use of these products in children younger than four years of age. Data from controlled clinical trials of cough/cold product ingredients do not support their efficacy in young children. Serious adverse effects have been reported from cough/cold product use in infants and children, which largely result from inappropriate use by caregivers. Conservative therapies, including nasal suctioning, humidification, and nasal saline, should be recommended over cough/cold product use for infants and children. Otolaryngologists should educate caregivers of children on the safe and effective use of these products and therapies.
authors.affiliation: Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Blank Children's Hospital and Clinics, Des Moines, IA, USA.
authors.forename: Edward A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Bell
authors.forename: David E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Tunkel
mesh_terms: D000996:Antitussive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003139:Common Cold / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; D012141:Respiratory Tract Infections / Q000188:drug therapy; D014481:United States; D014486:United States Food and Drug Administration
chemical_list: D000996:Antitussive Agents; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs