Steer clear of over-the-counter cough medicines for babies and toddlers.
Your little one is coughing and has a runny nose. Do not give cough and cold medicines to children under age 2. You may have an older product that says it’s ok. It’s not.
Here’s why: The ingredients create serious risks, like rapid, irregular heart rates and convulsions in babies and toddlers. Over-the-counter cold medications often contain one or more decongestant, expectorant, antihistamine and antitussive (cough suppressant). The combinations of these ingredients can lead to overdosing in little bodies, says Jeffrey Goff, RPh, MS, director of Children’s Hospital’s Pharmacy Department.
Help ease your kids’ symptoms with lots of rest, plenty of fluids and even more tender loving care. A cool-mist humidifier may help open up airways, and a dab of petroleum jelly under the nose should soften dry, irritated skin.
At all times, consult your pediatrician for your children’s care.