Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines for young children - Healthy Life Essex

Parents and carers are being advised that children suffering from a cough or cold should be treated with paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower the child’s temperature and if they have a cough to use a simple cough syrup (such as glycerol, honey or lemon).  For young babies, who are having difficulty feeding, nasal saline drops are recommended to help thin and clear nasal secretions.  Vapour rubs and inhalant decongestants, which can be applied to a child’s clothing, can also be used to provide relief from a stuffy nose. 

The Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) has reviewed over-the- counter (OTC) products used for treating cough and colds in children, and has advised that certain medicines should no longer be used in children under the age of two.  Professor Rosalind Smyth, Chair of the CHM Paediatric Medicines Expert Advisory Group said “Coughs and colds are generally self limiting conditions which will get better themselves usually within a few days. 

The management of symptoms in the under 2s is best achieved with treatment to control fever (ibuprofen or paracetamol), together with simple cough mixtures.” The pharmaceutical industry has voluntarily agreed to change the labels on products to remove the dosage instructions for children under 2, and to add additional instructions in relation to children aged 2-6 years, in keeping with the new advice.  All affected products are currently being changed. 

Products with the updated advice on their packaging, and in the Patient Information Leaflets, will be in pharmacies and stores by October 2008. A leaflet for patients/carers will be available for additional advice.  For older children, cough and cold medicines will continue to be available to help treat symptoms.   If you are concerned about your child’s condition, or about the correct medicine to use, then you should speak to your Pharmacist, Health Visitor, or other Healthcare Professional