Way to Give Cough Syrup to Children: The recent deaths of children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan due to consumption of suspicious cough syrup have raised concerns across the country. Questions are arising in the minds of parents whether it is safe to give cough syrup to children?
Dr. Pankaj Hari, Head of Pediatrics Department of AIIMS Delhi has shared important information on this serious topic. He told that if cough syrup is not adulterated and is given as per doctor’s advice, then it does not cause harm. But giving syrup to small children without expert advice can be dangerous. Know the important precautions related to cough syrup, correct dosage and safe alternatives in this article.
Doctor told when and how to give cough syrup to children
According to Dr. Pankaj Hari, Head of Pediatrics Department, AIIMS Delhi, if the cough syrup does not contain any adulteration and is given as per the doctor’s advice, then it does not cause any harm. A drug called Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide, which is found in most cough syrups, is a common and safe ingredient. This medicine stops the cough reflex in the brain and does not have any adverse effect on the kidneys.
When should cough syrup be given to children?
There are two types of cough syrup:
- Cough Suppressant – for dry cough
- Decongestant – for nasal congestion or runny nose
- This syrup should not be given to small children and infants.
In America, doctors do not give this syrup to children younger than 4 years. The problem in India is that these medicines are easily available from medical stores without doctor’s consultation, which is wrong. Buy the syrup only if clearly advised by the doctor.
What are the disadvantages of overdose?
If cough syrup is given in large amounts:
- the child will start feeling sleepy
- Drowsiness and dizziness may occur
- Heart beat may increase
- Vomiting and nausea may occur
- Teenage children can use it as an intoxicant, which leads to the risk of addiction.
What is the right dose for children?
Syrup is given to children according to their body weight (milligram per kg). The usual dose is 0.5 to 1 mg per kg of body weight, not more than three times a day. To give syrup, use the same dosing spoon which comes with the bottle. Giving syrup by spoon or tablespoon can lead to overdose. If the child is younger than 4 years and the doctor considers it necessary to give syrup, then he should write the dosage clearly.
What things should be kept in mind while buying cough syrup?
The syrup contains ingredients like Dextromethorphan, Phenylephrine and Pheniramine. Always buy branded and labeled syrups. Avoid cheap and unlabeled syrups, as they may contain a toxic solvent called Diethylene Glycol. This element can harm the kidneys, whereas Dextromethorphan is safe.
What are the home remedies?
There is no drug option for small children. According to the FDA, these medicines should not be given to children younger than 2 years. In such a situation, adopt home remedies like:
- Honey (for children above 1 year)
- steaming
- humidified air
- If the nose is blocked then saline drops, which are medicine free.
It is very important to take doctor’s advice before giving cough syrup to children. Giving syrup without knowledge can be dangerous. If the child is small, home remedies are safer. Parents should be alert and pay special attention to the quality and brand while purchasing medicines.