The Efficacy and Safety of Cough and Cold Medicines for Infants

ABSTRACT

Common cold is a conventional term for a mild upper respiratory illness characterized by symptoms of nasal stuffiness, rhinorrhea, sneezing, sore throat, and cough. Management of the common cold is intended to provide temporary relief of symptoms until the cold completes its natural history, as well as to reduce the risk of complications. However, most studies for cold preparations focus on adults, and there are limited and conflicting evidences for children. Various preparations for cough/cold are available, which include antihistamines, decongestants, antitussives, expectorants, analgesics/antipyretics, and some combination products. Nonpharmacologic therapies are also important and it is generally agreed that such supportive cares should form the mainstay of treatment for children with common colds. Adverse effects of the specific types of cold preparations should be considered carefully for very young children. In addition, it is very important to educate parents about the natural course of common cold, along with appropriate use correct dosages and potential adverse effects of cold preparations.