For decades Partners In Pediatrics has strongly discouraged the use of over the counter (OTC) decongestants, combination cold and cough preparations, and daytime cough suppressants in our patients. These OTC medications have recently received more scrutiny by several advisory panels. Experts in children’s health care agree that in general, these medications do not provide significant relief and do have the potential to cause significant side effects, excess sedation and respiratory suppression. We at Partners In Pediatrics have also been concerned that more frequent secondary complications like ear, sinus, or lung infections may result from the use of decongestants. There have also been documented cases of death from over dosage of some over the counter products.

What should parents do?

1.) Avoid the use of OTC cold and cough products in children, especially less than 6 years of age. Inform your child’s care providers (sitters, grandparents, daycare providers) of your preference to avoid the use of these products in your child.

2.) If your child experiences discomfort or loss of sleep due to congestion or cough symptoms, try conservative and integrated medicine approaches first. Mist, nasal saline irrigation, rest, plenty of clear liquids and less milk intake help tremendously. Also refer to our handbook for many more homeopathic tips.

3.) In both of our publications “The Healthy Child” and “Naturally Healthy Kids,” we do include a dosing chart for some OTC medications for temporary relief of cold and cough symptoms.

*DO NOT EXCEED THESE RECOMMENDED DOSES IF YOU CHOOSE TO USE THEM*

In keeping with our philosophy of providing safe alternative measures to help nurture your child through illness, we want to encourage you to take advantage of the guidance provided in our handbook and “Naturally Healthy Kids”.