Causes of kids' coughs include infections, allergies, irritants and chronic diseases. With over-the-counter medications, the type of cough determines the remedy. Dry or "non-productive" coughs produce no sputum or scant amounts of sputum. Productive coughs, as the name implies, produce copious amounts of clear, yellow or green sputum. Non-medicinal remedies work for all kinds of coughs. Consult a doctor for cough that produces large amounts of blood, interferes with breathing or lasts longer than a few days.
Cough Suppressants
Cough suppressants, also known as antitussives, treat non-productive coughs by quelling the impulse to cough. Over-the-counter cough suppressants contain the active ingredient dextromethorphan, which is a compound related to morphine. According to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, brand names marketed for kids include Benylin Pediatric, Robitussin Pediatric and Delsym. The Food and Drug Administration has approved the first two for use in kids over six months and the last--Delsym--for kids over 12 months. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends checking with a pediatrician before using any cough medications in kids.
Expectorants
Expectorants treat a productive cough by thinning mucus, which makes it easier to expel it from the airways. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, guaifenesin is the only expectorant approved for over-the-counter use. However, guaifenesin can cause serious side effects and even death in young children. Never use guaifensin or guaifenesin-containing products in kids younger than 4. MedlinePlus advises following package directions carefully when using guaifenesin in kids 4 to 11. Parents or caregivers who observe new nausea, vomiting or headache in a child treated with guiafenesin should contact poison control at 1-800-222-1222 or, for children who are not responsive or experience breathing problems, call 911.
Non-Medicinal Remedies
Non-medicinal remedies are safe and effective for kids of all ages, including infants. All coughs benefit from fresh, flowing air that is free from secondhand smoke and other contaminants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend adding a humidifier to moisturize dry airways and keep secretions wet and easy to clear. However, it's important to change filters regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria that can actually make kids' symptoms worse. Frequent sips of cool fluids or frozen treats can help soothe irritation without the risk of choking posed by throat lozenges and hard candies. Finally, a saltwater gargle can help treat throat pain and break up congealed secretions at the back of the throat.
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Common Over-the-Counter Medications
- MedlinePlus: Dextromethorphan
- MedlinePlus: Guaifenesin
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Cough Medicines: Understanding Your OTC Options
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Caring for Someone Sick at Home: Treat Dry Cough
