Under-6s ‘shouldn’t get cough medicines’

CHILDREN under the age of six should not be given over-the-counter cough and cold medicines, according to the Irish Medicines Board.

While an IMB safety and effectiveness review found no “robust” evidence that the medicines work effectively in young children, there have been some reports of side effects, such as allergic reactions and drowsiness.

“Given there are few benefits for children under six in taking these medicines but there are some risks, the IMB is recommending that they should no longer be used,” the medicines’ policing body stated yesterday.