Cold and Cough Medicines Don't Work

You're probably wondering why you can't findcoughing only once in a while, you don't have to
over-the-counter cold and cough medications for yoursuppress it. Cough is beneficial to the healing process
children lately. You're not alone! Recently the Food andbecause it clears the respiratory system from mucus.
Drug Administration (FDA) voted that over-the-counterIt only needs treatment when it becomes excessive.
(OTC) cold and cough medications should not be usedWhile you watch the progression of your child's cold,
for children under 6 years of age. This is becausethere are steps that you can take to improve her
there is not enough evidence to prove effectivenessodds of improvement:
of these medications in young children. Moreover,1. Rest and drink plenty of fluids. Clear fluids such as
single-ingredient or combination cold and coughwarm tea, water, and soup will help to thin out your
medications do not relieve cold and cough symptomsrespiratory secretions. Don't forget chicken soup as it
in children under 6 years.works like an expectorant.
Since efficacy of cold and cough medications was2. To battle nasal congestion, use the old-fashioned
determined from data for adults, no assumptions cansaline nasal spray. The salty water in saline nasal
be made about safety of the recommended dosessprays is not addictive like some of the decongestant
for children. Before you treat your child with annasal sprays available over-the-counter and it's very
over-the-counter cold and cough medication, consulteffective in moisturizing nasal mucosa and controlling
with your health care provider.congestion. Saline nasal sprays are very safe to use
But don't worry! Cough suppressants need only beeven in infants. They can be used even every hour if
used when the cough keeps your child up at night orneeded.
she is constantly coughing during the day. If she is