Rationale:
Cough and mucus production can be early indicators of respiratory or pulmonary disease, but coughing is a normal protective mechanism. Expectorants and cough suppressants offer minimal to no therapeutic benefit. They may cause side effects, some of which can be severe, and increase the risk of overdose when combined with other medications.
References:
- Isbister GK, Prior F, Kilham HA. Restricting cough and cold medications in children. J Paediatr Child Health 2012; 48(2):91–8.
- Schaeffer MK, Shehab N, Cohen AL, et al. Adverse events from cough and cold medication in children. Pediatrics 2008; 121(4):783–87.
- Sharfstein JM, North M, Serwint JR. Over the counter but no longer under the radar – pediatric cough and cold medications. N Eng J Med 2007; 357(23):2321–4.
- Carr, BC. Efficacy, abuse, and toxicity of over-the-counter cough and cold medications in the pediatric population. Currt Open Pediatrics. 2006; 18(2):184–88.
- Irwin RS, Baumann MH, Bolser DC, et al; American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP). Diagnosis and management of cough executive summary: ACCP evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Chest. 2006; 129(1_suppl): 1S–23S.
- https://www.uptodate.com/contents/the-common-cold-in-children-management-and-prevention