Rethinking a Pill for Every Ill
New questions about the safety and effectiveness of cough and
cold medicines marketed to kids put the spotlight on the fact
that many of the medications marketed for kids have not been
tested in children.
In October, drug-makers pulled 14 popular cough and cold
medicines labeled for babies and toddlers from the market to keep
parents from misusing and accidentally overdosing their children on
these over-the-counter (OTC) drugs found in many households. One
week later, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory
panel said children under 6 years old also should not use cough and
cold medicines such as decongestants and antihistamines because
their effectiveness has not been studied in kids and the risks
outweigh their benefits. The withdrawal of widely used
children's medicines challenged parents' assumptions that
the remedies on store shelves that promise to soothe sick kids are
actually safe and effective for them.
What to Watch:
Some pediatricians see a bright side to the development: With
new questions about OTC drugs for kids, parents might be a little
more reluctant to reach for a pill for every ill, and a little more
willing to handle everyday sicknesses with remedies that are always
within reach (or not sold in stores) - patience, rest, and a little
tender care. And the large scale of this recall could prompt a
louder call for more testing of drugs in kids before they're
marketed for them.
For Kids:
What to Do If You Get the Flu
Flu
Who Needs a Flu Shot?
For Teens:
What to Do If You Get the Flu
Who Needs a Flu Shot?
For Parents:
Tips for Treating the Flu
News - OTC Infant Cough and Cold Meds Pulled By Makers
Too Late for a Flu Shot?
News - Health Officials Urge Flu Shots for All Kids Who Need
Them
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Issues to Watch
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Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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