No prescription-free cold remedies for children

Non-prescription cold remedies are not always suitable for children

01/09/2012

The Professional Association of Paediatricians (BVKJ) warns against the use of over-the-counter cold remedies in children. Even herbal remedies can have strong side effects. Parents should resort to proven home remedies, how much drink and honey. However, parents should refrain from using essential oils in sick infants and toddlers.

Echinacea, vitamin C or zinc are not recommended for children
Ulrich Fegeler, spokesman of the Professional Association of Paediatricians (BVKJ) reports: „Over-the-counter so-called cold remedies, which are also available for adults, usually contain a combination of different active ingredients. Since the child's metabolism is not comparable to that of an adult, such over-the-counter remedies can easily lead to overdose. Also, certain substances, e.g. Caffeine, not in medicine for children.“ Echinacea, vitamin C or zinc are not recommended for children. In addition, their benefits in professional circles are controversial. It is particularly dangerous to combine several preparations with each other, explains Fegeler. Canadian paediatricians had examined various over-the-counter cold remedies for their suitability for children. However, proof of efficacy could only be provided for a few funds. Many of the over-the-counter cold remedies may even be dangerous for children because they produce side effects.

Parents can rely on proven home remedies
The BVKJ advises parents to use well-tried home remedies for colds. For example, they could increase the humidity of the room air through moist cloths or a humidifier. This makes sense, because very dry indoor air, which is often caused by heating, can promote respiratory diseases and lead to a general feeling of discomfort. Essential oils should not be used according to Fegeler: „Infants and toddlers should also not be given essential oils to rub or inhale because they may even worsen breathing difficulties and cause suffocation. "

Children should drink a lot in case of coughing and runny nose, to keep the mucous membranes moist and to release the mucus in the respiratory tract. Honey is considered as another home remedy for colds. About half a teaspoon of honey in a hot drink at bedtime can reduce coughing fits and improve sleep. Fegeler reports: „Children under the age of one, however, are not allowed to get honey as it may occasionally contain bacteria that can be life-threatening to children of this age group.“ In principle, it is best to discuss the treatment of the child with a doctor. (Ag)

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Picture: Rudolf Ortner