Cough and cold medicines risks for those under six

The Irish Medicine Board (IMB) has warned that over the counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines for children should not be used for those under six-years-old.

A review of the medicines found no robust evidence that they work effectively in the under six age group, and this, combined with some reported side-effects, such as allergic reactions and drowsiness, has led the IMB to recommend that they should no longer be used.

New product information for such medicines is currently in the process of being updated and a letter has been sent from the IMB to all GPs and pharmacists to advise of the changes. The updated labeling will be introduced in pharmacies over the coming months.

However, the IMB stressed that people who have used these products in the past should not be concerned.

For six to 12-year-olds, the IMB has advised that OTC cough and cold medicines can continue to be used, but care should be taken to ensure the maximum daily dose is not exceeded and that no other cough and cold medicines are taken at the same time.

Dr Joan Gilvarry, Director of Human Medicines at IMB, said: “The risk of side effects is reduced in older children as they weigh more, get fewer coughs and colds and can say if the medicine is working or not.”