Over-the-counter cough and cold medicine can seriously injure or kill children under the age of 2, according to an FDA statement released on January 17.

Medicines that are deadly to young children include decongestants, expectorants, antihistamines and cough suppressants. The products can cause convulsions, rapid heart rate, unconsciousness, and death, according to the FDA.
 
Parents are advised to never give children under the age of 2 years any cough or cold medications without doctor approval, and the FDA advises parents to use caution and talk to a doctor before using the same medications for children between 2 and 11 years of age.
 
For children between the ages of 2 and 11 years, the FDA recommends:
  • Making sure to avoid giving children more than one cough and cold medicine at a time, which can cause overdosing of main ingredients
  • Carefully following all directions on the labels
  • Using measuring spoons or cups that are make for measuring medication
  • Keeping medicines away from children and closed with child-proof caps
  • Not using cough and cold medicines to help children sleep
 
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