COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning regarding the risks that giving a young child cough or cold medicine may pose.
In a report released Thursday, the FDA recommended that parents not give cough or cold medicine to children under two years old because of the risk of severe side effects, NBC 4's Tom Brockman reported.
But the potentially life-threatening side effects do not render parents helpless when it comes to comforting a sick child.
Pediatrician Joanne Rohyans has been treating children for 25 years. She agreed with the government recommendations.
"It's kind of interesting," she explained. "I always say when people are leaving now, we just want you to do home therapy, might be what your grandma recommended."
Doctor Rohyans said that the best thing to do for any child who is suffering from cold or flu symptoms is to clear their nose and give them plenty of liquids.
Tea and honey, a teaspoon of karo syrup or a teaspoon of honey may be helpful for children at least one year old.
Tylenol, advil or motrin can help children in discomfort, but a doctor should be consulted first, Brockman reported.
The FDA is still studying the risk that cough or cold medicine poses for children between 2 and 11 years old.
Until then, the FDA urged parents to follow the product's instructions.
Experts said that, as always, if you're concerned about your child's health, you should visit a doctor.
Stay with NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com for additional information.
To send a news tip or submit a story idea, please e-mail us at stories@nbc4i.com.
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