From the Guidelines
For a 13-year-old with a dry cough, dextromethorphan is generally recommended as the antitussive medication of choice, due to its effectiveness in suppressing the cough reflex and relatively safe side effect profile compared to other options like codeine-containing medications. The appropriate dose for this age group is typically the same as the adult dose on the package label, which should be given every 6-8 hours as needed, not exceeding the maximum daily dose listed on the product 1. It's also important to note that, according to the Chest guideline and expert panel report from 2020, codeine-containing medications should be avoided in children due to the potential for serious side effects, including respiratory distress 1.
In addition to dextromethorphan, honey can be an effective alternative for soothing dry coughs, with one to two teaspoons given as needed. Ensuring the child stays well-hydrated and using a humidifier in their room at night can also help alleviate cough symptoms. However, if the cough persists beyond 7 days, worsens, or is accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
Key considerations when managing a dry cough in a 13-year-old include:
- Avoiding codeine-containing medications due to potential serious side effects 1
- Using dextromethorphan as the preferred antitussive medication
- Considering honey as a natural soothing alternative
- Ensuring proper hydration and using a humidifier to alleviate symptoms
- Monitoring for worsening symptoms or those that persist beyond 7 days, which may require medical attention.
From the FDA Drug Label
Purpose Cough suppressant Package/Label Principal Display Panel Compare to Delsym® active ingredient Dextromethorphan Polistirex Extended-Release Oral Suspension Cough Suppressant The recommended antitussive (cough suppressant) medication for a 13-year-old with a dry cough is dextromethorphan 2 2.
- The medication is available in various formulations, including an extended-release oral suspension.
- It is essential to follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult a healthcare professional for proper guidance.
From the Research
Antitussive Medication for a 13-year-old with a Dry Cough
- The recommended antitussive medication for a 13-year-old with a dry cough is not clearly established in the provided studies.
- According to 3, dextromethorphan may be beneficial in adults with cough, but its effectiveness has not been demonstrated in children and adolescents.
- 4 suggests that honey may modestly decrease frequency and severity of cough compared with dextromethorphan or no treatment in children.
- 5 discusses the use of antitussive agents in advanced cancer patients, but does not provide specific recommendations for children or adolescents with a dry cough.
- 6 compares the antitussive activity of dextromethorphan and codeine in patients with chronic cough, but the study population is not specific to children or adolescents.
- 7 examines the dose-response relationship of dextromethorphan in children with cough, but does not provide a clear recommendation for a 13-year-old with a dry cough.
Considerations for Antitussive Medication
- The American Academy of Pediatrics does not support the use of dextromethorphan for treating acute cough in children 7.
- Antihistamines, antihistamine-decongestant combinations, and guaifenesin do not provide greater relief than placebo in adults 4, and their effectiveness in children is also unclear.
- Codeine has not been shown to effectively treat cough caused by the common cold 3.