What has FDA recommended regarding OTC cough and cold medicines and young children?
FDA recommends that OTC cough and cold medicines not be used to treat infants and children less than 2 years of age. Giving these products to these children can cause serious and potentially life-threatening side effects. The serious adverse events reported with cough and cold products include death, convulsions, rapid heart rates, and decreased levels of consciousness. Many drug manufacturers have preemptively and voluntarily withdrawn cough and cold medicines that were being sold for use in this age group. That action was strongly supported by FDA. If you are concerned about making your child feel more comfortable, talk with your doctor about what approaches to take. If your child’s cold symptoms do not improve or get worse, contact your doctor. A persistent cough may signal a more serious condition such as bronchitis or asthma. back to top Q: Can parents give OTC cough and cold products to older children? A: FDA knows of reports of serious side effects from OTC cough and cold medici
