Don’t give cold cures to children

PARentS should avoid giving decongestant medicines to children under 12 with cold symptoms, say experts in the bMJ.

they analysed the evidence for a range of treatments for the common cold, and concluded that decongestants or antihistamines should not be given to children under six, and only with caution to those aged between six and 12. there was no evidence the treatments alleviate blocked or runny noses, but they can cause adverse effects such as drowsiness or stomach upset.

in children under two, they have even been associated with convulsions, rapid heart rate and death. the review advised doctors to reassure patients that symptoms should pass of their own accord in a few days.