Cough syrup linked to children's death: Paediatrician warns against over-the-counter misuse

Health risks of cough syrups: Most cough medicines contain mixtures of decongestants, antihistamines, and occasionally codeine derivatives. Excessive amounts may lead to drowsiness, dizziness, palpitations, nausea, and in severe cases, shortness of breath or seizure (Image: Canva)

A cough in children often triggers a strong response from well-meaning parents, who mostly assume that a syrup will ease the urge to cough. However, the dangers of misuse and overuse of cough syrups have been highlighted after a 5-year-old boy died because he reportedly consumed a free cough syrup.

The tragedy is a reminder that what may seem like a harmless spoonful can have potentially lethal side effects.

Child health specialists note that most childhood coughs are caused by viral infections like the common cold or flu, which typically resolve on their own with supportive care. Despite this, many parents continue to rely on syrups that offer little more than a sweet taste, potentially masking symptoms and exposing children to side effects. Since children metabolise drugs differently than adults, they are more susceptible to overdosing and adverse drug reactions.

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Doctors advise that the focus should be on identifying the cause of the cough, providing effective home remedies when possible, and only resorting to drug treatment if absolutely necessary and recommended by a paediatrician. Knowing when and how to use cough treatments can make the difference between a quick recovery and serious complications.

Dr Jaykishan Tripathi, Consultant Pediatric Critical Care at KIMS Hospitals, Thane, tells Moneycontrol that, "A child's cough can be frightening for parents, and the first thing that comes to mind is reaching for a cough syrup. However, syrups are not a solution and can cause more harm than good if overused."

Paediatricians caution that the overuse or misuse of cough syrups in children risks serious side effects, even poisoning at times. The priority should be determining the cause of the cough, providing safe relief at home, and reserving medications for situations where they are absolutely necessary.

Most common childhood coughs result from viral infections such as colds or flu. These conditions are self-limiting and usually improve within a week or two. Syrups merely cover up the symptom, not the cause. Over-reliance on them can also delay proper diagnosis, particularly if the cough is due to asthma, allergy, or a serious chest infection.

Most cough medicines contain mixtures of decongestants, antihistamines, and occasionally codeine derivatives. Excessive amounts may lead to drowsiness, dizziness, palpitations, nausea, and in severe cases, shortness of breath or seizure. Since a child's metabolism is more sensitive to drugs, even slight overdoses can have significant impacts. Parents should not administer an "extra spoon" hoping for faster recovery.

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Unlike adults, children's kidneys and livers are still maturing, meaning drugs linger longer in their system and have a greater effect. A dose that seems harmless can build up and become toxic if administered too frequently. This is why physicians demand exact weight-based dosing in children.

Simple, home remedies often work just as well, if not better, than syrups:

• Honey (for children older than 1 year) soothes the throat and reduces nighttime cough
• Warm liquids, soups, and herbal teas coat the throat and relieve irritation
• Steam inhalation or saltwater nasal drops loosen congestion
• Good hydration and rest help the body recover naturally from the infection.

A cough is typically a protective response that helps expel mucus and irritants from the airway. Suppressing it unnecessarily with syrups can backfire. Excessive use of cough syrup in children is not only ineffective but also dangerous. Parents should focus on supportive care, monitor symptoms, and seek medical advice if the cough persists, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, respiratory distress, or a refusal to eat. Proper use of drugs, complemented by natural remedies and timely consultation with a physician, is the safest way to treat cough in children.

FAQs on Health Risks of Cough Syrups in Children

1. Are cough syrups safe for children?

Cough syrups can pose serious health risks for children if misused or overused. They may cause drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or even more severe side effects like shortness of breath or seizures.

2. What should parents do if their child has a cough?

Parents should focus on identifying the cause of the cough, use home remedies for relief, and consult a paediatrician before considering cough syrups.

3. Why are cough syrups not recommended for common childhood coughs?

Most childhood coughs are caused by viral infections like colds or flu, which resolve on their own. Syrups merely mask symptoms and can delay proper diagnosis.

4. What are the risks of overusing cough syrups in children?

Overuse can lead to serious side effects, including poisoning. Children's kidneys and livers are still maturing, making them more sensitive to drugs, which can accumulate and become toxic.

5. What home remedies can help relieve a child's cough?

Effective home remedies include honey (for children over 1 year), warm liquids, steam inhalation, and good hydration. These are safe, low-cost, and free from the side effects of cough syrups.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.