Best Cough Medicine For Kids

Children by nature are prone to getting sick. Surely, young kids who become ill will have the best OTC cough and cold products to deal with. Cold symptoms may hinder your child’s ability to sleep and function throughout the day. Cough and cold medicine is something that children tend to need if they’re getting sick. These best medicines can provide relief from symptoms and help kids recover more comfortably. But, what do you do for children younger than the recommended age for remedies?

What’s the leading medicine for older children? Well, read on to find out for yourself. Here, we’re going to explore effective and ineffective approaches when it comes to addressing cold symptoms.

Always Be Mindful Of Dosages

Because of how potent these drugs can be, you need to be careful.

1. Common cold and cough remedies for kids are typically formulated for kids who are at least 4 years of age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises against using over-the-counter cough and cold medicine in kids under 4 years old unless specifically directed by a doctor. You’ll find that cough remedies for toddlers are FDA-approved homeopathic products made up of all-natural ingredients. 
2. Most problems encountered, however, are because more of the recommended amount is used (overdose) than it should be. Because of the nature of this, it can be a bit too potent, and it can cause serious side effects throughout the body. There can be serious complications in a child’s liver. So before you begin, you shouldn’t use anything that’s not suitable for kids of that age and remember that they won’t keep your child from getting better faster. It’s crucial to avoid administering too much cough medication to prevent potential complications.

Now, let’s move into some of the specific over-the-counter remedies for children that passed the FDA’s requirements and are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for your child’s safety.

Cough Medicine Options For Kids

 

Zarbee’s Syrup Honey To Help Children

• It is one that’s formulated by a pediatrician, and the main ingredient in it is honey. Honey has been highly researched and proven to help children, and it can stifle those awful throat tickles. It’s got natural ingredients that are safe for children to use, which means that this is probably one of the leading drugs for children. The key to this one is to get the right formula for your child’s age. Your child’s primary care doctor will tell you not to give honey to children under the age of one. That’s because it can cause botulism in their young bodies.
• There are two different types of this. One is for babies aged 2-12 months, and it’s made with organic agave and the English Ivy Leaf. It doesn’t have honey since you’re not supposed to give it to babies. But, for children, it has the same active ingredients, with also vitamin C and Zinc to help protect and boost the immune system. Zarbee’s products are all made with natural ingredients that should not cause your child to experience any side effects.

VapoRub Vicks VapoRub And Nasal Congestion

• It is specifically formulated for kids over the age of 2, and it is best for addressing symptoms of nasal congestion when applied correctly. The main ingredients within this are camphor, eucalyptus, and also menthol.
• When you use this, you need to put it on the chest and neck, and never near the nose or nostrils. That’s because camphor is toxic when it’s absorbed through the mucous membranes, or via broken skin, so make sure the skin isn’t broken when you do apply this onto your child.
• You can also apply this best topical children’s rub on their backs. It’s meant to open up their airways when they have difficulty breathing through their nasal passages and mouth.

Antihistamines For Runny Nose That Is Caused By Allergies

• This one can help, especially if it’s a runny nose that is caused by allergies. You can use this as well to treat colds, and it does help with dry mouth and nose. A stuffy nose can make it hard for your baby to breathe and a bulb syringe can be used to remove mucus from your baby’s mouth or nose. 
• Antihistamines can be found in allergy medicine or nighttime products. Dimetapp is a good one since it can help with nighttime flu. Pediacare Night Cold & Cold for Children is another option to take at night. Triaminic Night Time Cold and Syrup is another popular choice. Finally, there is Benadryl, which may cause side effects such as drowsiness.
• Pediatricians recommend using over-the-counter drugs with antihistamines specifically for treating cold symptoms, not as a sleep aid. Parents have been known to give their children Benadryl or other over-the-counter drugs solely to help them sleep, and that is not their intended use. This can potentially cause harm to your child, so it is best to use these remedies responsibly and as directed.

Nature’s Way Sambucus Standardized Elderberry

• It is an organic syrup that has rave reviews. It’s sweetened with agave, so you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals being a significant factor here. Agave is excellent for children since it is a natural product. It is made with water, citric acid, and natural organic flavors that are in it.
• It includes a dosage cup and is suitable for children aged 1 and up to 10 years.
• There isn’t a ton of sugar in it either, and it’s okay if you’re looking for something more natural for a child to help with their symptoms. 

Robitussin For Children

• This one is the children’s version of this, and it is mainly used to help with runny nose, sneezing, and other such factors. It provides relief and works for up to 8 hours. However, this one should be for children over the age of 6. If you’re worried about this, you should ask your doctor.
• If the cough symptoms last more than a week, or they manifest rashes and fever, you need to stop this. But, this is an excellent generalized drug that does the job, and although it isn’t one of the more organic ones on the list, it’s a pretty effective means to take care of the problem.

Delsym

• This product provides 12-hour relief and is available in a grape flavor. It is excellent for persistent symptoms and effectively suppresses them. This product can be used both during the day and at night.
• It includes a dosing cup to ensure accurate dosage.
• Specifically formulated to address cough symptoms, it does not contain pain relievers, fever reducers, or excessive sodium.
• This cough remedy comes highly recommended by doctors, offers the best value for its price, and delivers the best results.

What About Advil?

• Advil and Tylenol are generally suitable for kids experiencing pain or discomfort. However, it’s important to note that they contain suppressants, and their strength might not be significant.
• The Food and Drug Administration doesn’t recommend suppressants in these medications. Carefully read the labels, and if Tylenol for kids is not available, ensure you check the ages and dosage information on the bottle.

Over-the-counter cold and cold medicine for kids can cause some side effects. It’s always important to read all the information that comes with the products so you know what to look for in case your child experiences a side effect. Any time there is an adverse reaction to a cough medicine, you should contact your child’s primary care doctor for guidance on what you should do.

Other Recommendations

All of these cough remedies can be very helpful for providing relief to your child from cold symptoms and can even help reduce fever. There are other recommendations to go along with the cough remedies that will help make them more comfortable or help them avoid getting sick in the future. Some of these can be found in publications like Women’s Health magazine.

Use Hand Sanitizer In Your Home

Sometimes the top cough medicine for children is to do what you can to prevent illness. Hand sanitizer will kill germs and bacteria your child picks up from surfaces to help keep them healthy.

Use Saline Nose Drops

To help with congestion and promote comfort, you can use saline nose drops for your child. Saline nose drops help keep the throat and nasal passages moist, providing relief from discomfort. Additionally, they can soothe a sore throat in certain cases.

Let The Children Drink Warm Fluids

Encouraging your child to drink warm fluids, such as warm drinks or herbal teas, and consuming chicken soup can also contribute to relieving congestion and enhancing overall comfort for them.

Use A Cool Mist Humidifier

When your child’s cough and cold symptoms keep them up at night, try putting a cool mist humidifier in their room for sleeping. Again, much like the saline spray, the cool mist will moisten the nasal passages, the throat, and the mouth helping to soothe their throats and lungs and ease a sore throat for your little one to sleep. 

Ask The Expert’s Advice

Should your child’s cough symptoms not get better for an extended period, or their cold and flu conditions worsen and you notice fast breathing, then you may want to think about taking them into one of the emergency rooms (especially if it’s potentially life-threatening) in your area or try to find a doctor for an assessment of your child. If there’s something more going on, then even the top drug isn’t going to make your little one get better.

Cough remedies can be helpful for kids who are not feeling well. Sometimes the top option for children’s cough isn’t to seek out the leading remedies, but rather to use natural homeopathic products sold such as those found in Women’s Health magazine, to help suppress it. This is a great list for those who want to have something on hand when they need to alleviate the discomfort.

Kids’ Cough Medicines FAQs

What Is The Top Medicine To Relieve A Child’s Tussis?

Honey is the top cough medicine for kids. If it fails, make sure that they drink a lot of fluids for them to feel better. Beyond natural methods, the top product available over the counter is Delsym 12. It’s the most highly recommended option by pharmacists. It’s the leading option for suppressing and preventing the recurrence of discomfort for an extended period.

How Can I Prevent My Child From Experiencing Cough And Cold Symptoms?

If you’re dealing with a child’s cold, there are several steps you can take to provide relief. Kids commonly exhibit symptoms when their airways are dry. To alleviate this discomfort, prompt them to drink plenty of fluids, especially warm water, or utilize a cool-mist humidifier. Additionally, pediatricians may suggest over-the-counter syrups, honey, or other home remedies as comforting options.

How Do I Get My Child To Stop Coughing At Night?
To relieve a child’s irritated throat and alleviate cough symptoms, consider the following:

• Elevating their head to minimize exposure to irritants.
• Use a humidifier and clear their nose with a nasal saline mist.
• Gargle with warm salt water
• For a child experiencing trouble breathing, it’s essential to promptly seek medical attention.

Combining these methods with other top remedies for alleviating cough symptoms can enhance overall effectiveness.

What Can You Give A Five-Year-Old Experiencing A Tussis?

For 5-year-old kids, drops can be administered to alleviate cough, and hard candy lozenges can be given to relieve their sore throat. Sore throats often accompany coughs, so if you run through the symptom checker and find your child is experiencing both of these, look for the one to deal with both symptoms. Additionally, using saline nasal spray can help alleviate congestion and provide relief.

What Is The Fastest Way To Cure A Tussis?

To quickly alleviate cold and cough, taking a hot shower or inhaling steam from hot water is an effective remedy. The warmth helps open the airways and loosen thin mucus, providing relief from congestion. Additionally, using warm-mist humidifiers can contribute to a more comfortable environment for kids. If your child’s cough symptoms persist or worsen, leading to labored breathing, it’s essential to consult a doctor for further evaluation and appropriate medical intervention. This is particularly crucial to rule out bacterial infections or other underlying health issues that may require specific treatment.

Is Tussis Medicine OK To Be Used By Kids?

Cough relief is suitable for kids over the age of 5. If they are taking other cough remedies, though, you should ask their doctor if it will not be harmful to them.

Does Honey Help A Cough?

Yes, honey can help your child feel relief from symptoms among both kids and adults. However, ensure that your baby is older than one year before giving them honey, as it is often included in top remedies to alleviate cough symptoms.

What Helps A Dry Cough In A Toddler?
When a toddler experiences a dry cough, there are several steps you can take to provide relief. Ensuring the kids drink plenty of fluids can help soothe their throats and promote comfort. Using a cool mist humidifier in the room can add moisture to the air and create a more comfortable environment. Elevating the toddler’s head slightly during sleep might also be beneficial. Additionally, certain over-the-counter remedies, recommended by a healthcare professional, may be considered to treat multiple symptoms. If the issue persists or worsens, it’s advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare provider.

When Can Children Use Tussis Remedies?

Kids can utilize remedies for respiratory symptoms under the guidance and approval of their pediatrician. The appropriate age for implementing such cough remedies may vary based on the specific product and the child’s unique health condition. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a board-certified pediatrician is crucial to determine the optimal timing and dosage for administering these remedies to children.

How Do Cough Remedies Work?

Cough remedies work by targeting and addressing the underlying causes or symptoms of respiratory discomfort. They often contain active ingredients that help soothe irritated airways, reduce inflammation, or suppress the reflex that triggers coughing. Some remedies may also provide additional relief by loosening mucus or promoting better airflow. The specific mechanisms of action vary depending on the ingredients and formulation of the remedy. It’s important to follow the instructions and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure the safe and effective use of remedies.

Is Robitussin Safe For Children?

Robitussin is a brand that offers a range of products, including some formulated for children. However, it is essential to check the specific Robitussin product and its recommended age range to determine if it is safe for children. Always consult with a pediatrician or healthcare professional before giving any remedy to children to ensure appropriate dosage and safety.

What Is The Fastest Way To Relieve A Child’s Tussis?

The key to relieving a child’s cough depends on identifying and addressing the underlying cause. Some strategies to alleviate cough symptoms include maintaining proper hydration, using a humidifier or steamy shower to moisturize the airways, and encouraging rest. Additionally, soothing remedies such as honey (for children over one year old) and warm beverages can provide relief. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the approach for your child’s specific situation.

What Is The Better Remedy For A Child Experiencing Nighttime Coughing?
Finding the most suitable remedy for a child experiencing nighttime coughing can vary depending on the individual. Non-medical options such as elevating the child’s head during sleep, using a humidifier in the bedroom, or providing throat-soothing remedies like warm liquids or throat lozenges (age-appropriate) can potentially provide relief. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to rule out any underlying health conditions.

Does VapoRub Assist In Easing Symptoms Of Tussis?

VapoRub is a popular product that can help relieve congestion and soothe discomfort associated with cough symptoms. When applied topically, it may provide a cooling sensation and improve nasal congestion. However, it is important to follow the product’s instructions, use age-appropriate formulations, and consult a healthcare professional, especially when considering its use for children.

How Does A Tussis Subside In Children?

Coughing in children typically subsides as the underlying cause, such as a respiratory infection or irritation, resolves. Adequate rest, hydration, and a healthy lifestyle can support the body’s natural healing process. However, if the cough persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

Top Cough And Cold Medicines For Kids: Other Resources

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/best-medicine-childs-cough.html

https://familydoctor.org/otc-cough-and-cold-medicines-and-my-child/

 

Last Updated on April 12, 2023 by Rejie Salazar

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