According to experts and WHO, giving cough syrup to children under 5 years of age is not safe. Dextromethorphan and toxic substances like Diethylene Glycol, Ethylene Glycol present in it can damage children's nervous system, kidneys, and liver. For cough and cold in young children, only use natural remedies and medication advised by a doctor.
Cough syrup: Cough and cold are common in children during changing seasons, but experts and WHO state that giving cough syrup to children under 5 years of age can be dangerous. Dextromethorphan and toxic substances like Diethylene Glycol, Ethylene Glycol, when included in syrups, can cause severe damage to children's nervous system, kidneys, and liver. Therefore, for young children, instead of syrup, home remedies, adequate nutrition, sleep, and medication under a doctor's supervision should be given.
Types of Cough Syrups and Their Effects
Cough syrups are mainly of two types. Dry cough syrup works to suppress dry coughs. Wet cough syrup, on the other hand, helps thin and expel phlegm in productive coughs. Many syrups contain an ingredient called Dextromethorphan, which affects the part of the brain that sends cough signals.
However, when taken in excessive amounts by young children, it can affect the nervous system, breathing capacity, and sometimes even the heart. Expectorant ingredients, meanwhile, thin mucus, making coughing easier. These syrups also contain certain chemicals and preservatives like Diethylene Glycol and Ethylene Glycol. If taken in quantities exceeding the safe limit, these can cause severe damage to children's kidneys, liver, and nervous system.
What Experts Say
According to Professor Dr. Jugal Kishore, Director of the Department of Community Medicine at Safdarjung Hospital, WHO's opinion is that giving cough syrup to children under five years of age is generally not safe. In young children, Dextromethorphan can affect cough signals, causing breathing difficulties, dizziness, vomiting, and unconsciousness. Toxic substances like Diethylene Glycol and Ethylene Glycol, on the other hand, can cause severe damage to the kidneys and liver.
Preservatives and sweetening agents included in syrups can also cause stomach problems, allergies, and affect other organs if taken for a long time or in excessive amounts. Therefore, experts and WHO advise that instead of syrups, natural remedies and medications under a doctor's supervision should be used for young children.
Natural and Safe Remedies
For cough and cold in young children, some home and safe remedies can be adopted. These include warm water and steam inhalation, providing adequate nutrition, and ensuring children get sufficient sleep. These measures are considered primary treatments to provide comfort to children.
Precautionary Measures
- Do not give over-the-counter cough syrup to children under five years of age.
- Always take cough syrup only on a doctor's advice.
- Adhere to the safe dosage written on the syrup.
- For young children, specifically avoid syrups containing toxic chemicals like Diethylene Glycol and Ethylene Glycol.
- If unusual conditions like vomiting, dizziness, or breathing difficulties appear after using the syrup, contact a doctor immediately.
Why This Is Important
The bodies and nervous systems of young children are not yet fully developed. Therefore, their reaction to medications can be different and more sensitive compared to adults. Taking incorrect dosages or syrups containing toxic substances can lead to serious health problems. Recent incidents have made it clear how severe the effects of syrups can be in children.
