If you have a child that is sick then you may be wondering what you can give them and what you cannot give them. First and foremost if you are worried or unsure of a medication or dosage then be sure to call the pediatrician first. In the cases of children and medication it is better to be safe than sorry. However you still may be wondering about the crackdown on cough and cold medicine for small children.
Over the counter cough and cold medicine are dangerous because many believe that just because you can pick them up while buying groceries that they must be safe. Over the counter cough and cold medicine can have a great deal of side effect such as stokes and blood pressure problems. These can be devastating to a young child. Along with side effects young children can easily overdose on over the counter cough and cold medications. This can also lead to death.
To avoid such tragedies happening in your family, follow the rules of the FDA and pediatricians and read the labels. First children under four years of age should not get over the counter cough and cold medication and those medications may not even help children under the age of six. Also never give a child medication to make them sleepy, this is not recommended. When you do buy over the counter medication make sure you look at the label, you will need to look for the age group it is intended, the facts, and dosage. When you give the child medicine always use a medicine dropper or cup, do not just use a spoon. If you have any questions call the doctor. » Read more: Cold Medicine for Children