The makers of children’s over-the-counter cough and cold medicines have changed the recommended age for dosing.
Labels now read, “DO NOT USE in CHILDREN UNDER 4 YEARS of Age”.
Members of the Consumer Healthcare Product Association (CHPA) have volunteered to change their labels,
hoping to prevent the misuse of these products.
Tips for Parents and Caregivers:
- Do not give a child cough and cold medicines that are made for adults.
- Talk to your health professional before giving a child any cough or cold medicines.
- Read the label carefully. Never give two or more medicines that contain the same ingredient.
- Follow the directions on the label. If there are no directions for your child’s age and weight, call your health professional and ask for dosing instructions.
- Use the measuring device that comes with the medicine.
- Choose medication bottles that have child-resistant safety caps.
- Store the medicine out of reach of children.
- Understand that cough and cold medicines treat symptoms, but do not cure a cough or a cold. Courtesy: www.fda.gov
Call NC Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or chat from this site for information.
