From the Guidelines
In New Zealand, honey-based cough syrups like Kiwiherb Children's Chest Syrup are recommended for children under 6 years, while for children over 6, products containing dextromethorphan or guaifenesin may be used according to package instructions, with dosing based on the child's weight and age, and used for no more than 3-5 days without medical consultation, as suggested by the most recent guidelines 1.
Key Considerations
- For children under 6 years, medicated cough syrups are not advised due to potential morbidity and mortality, and honey-based remedies are preferred 1.
- For children over 6, products containing dextromethorphan or guaifenesin may be used, but with caution and according to package instructions 1.
- Non-medicinal approaches, such as honey (for children over 12 months), increased fluids, and humidified air, are recommended as first-line treatments, as coughs are often the body's natural way of clearing irritants 1.
- Always check with a healthcare provider before giving any medication to children under 2 years of age, due to the potential for serious side effects and toxicity 1.
Safe Cough Syrups for Kids in New Zealand
- Kiwiherb Children's Chest Syrup
- Gaia Kids Cough Syrup
- Pharmacy-only options like Dimetapp, Robitussin Children's Cough & Cold, and Pamol Children's Cough, but only for children over 6 years and according to package instructions.
Important Reminders
- Dosing should always be based on the child's weight and age, using the measuring device provided.
- These syrups should generally be used for no more than 3-5 days without medical consultation.
- Pediatricians recommend non-medicinal approaches first, and coughs are often the body's natural way of clearing irritants.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions take every 4 hours or as directed by a doctor chew thoroughly before swallowing adults and children 12 years of age and over - 2 chewable tablets every 4 hours, not to exceed 12 chewable tablets in any 24-hour period children ages 6 to 12 years - 1 chewable tablet every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 chewable tablets in any 24-hour period children ages 6 and under - do not use DIRECTIONS Place drops under tongue 30 minutes before/after meals. Adults and children 12 years and over: Take 10 drops up to 3 times per day. Consult a physician for use in children under 12 years of age.
For kids in New Zealand, dextromethorphan can be used for children ages 6 to 12 years, with a dose of 1 chewable tablet every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 chewable tablets in any 24-hour period 2. For pholcodine, it is recommended to consult a physician for use in children under 12 years of age 3.
- For children 12 years and over, both dextromethorphan and pholcodine can be used, following the respective dosage instructions.
- For children under 6 years, dextromethorphan should not be used. It is essential to follow the dosage instructions and consult a physician if unsure about the safe use of cough syrups for kids.
From the Research
Safe Cough Syrups for Kids in New Zealand
When it comes to choosing a safe cough syrup for kids in New Zealand, there are several factors to consider.
- The age and weight of the child
- The type of cough (productive or non-productive)
- Any pre-existing medical conditions
- The ingredients in the cough syrup
Ingredients to Avoid
Some ingredients in cough syrups can be harmful to children, especially those under the age of 2 4.
- Promethazine
- Diphenhydramine
- Ephedrine These ingredients can cause serious adverse effects, including hallucinations, ataxia, and even death 5.
Safe Alternatives
There are some cough syrups that have been shown to be safe and effective for children.
- Polysaccharide-resin-honey based cough syrups have been found to be well-tolerated and effective in children over 2 years of age 6.
- Bilastine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine syrup has been found to be non-sedating and effective in treating dry cough in adults and adolescents, but its safety and efficacy in children under 12 years of age is not well established 7.
Precautions
When giving cough syrup to children, it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and to be aware of the potential risks of overdosage 8.
- Always read the label carefully
- Consult with a pharmacist or doctor if you're unsure about any ingredient or dosage
- Never give cough syrup to a child under the age of 2 without consulting a doctor first
- Be aware of the potential for adverse interactions with other medications 8.