Citation

Gunn VL, Taha SH, Liebelt EL, Serwint JR. Pediatrics 2001; 108(3): E52.

Affiliation

Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. gunnvl@mail.jhmi.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 2001, American Academy of Pediatrics)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

11533370

Abstract

Over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medications are marketed widely for relief of common cold symptoms, and yet studies have failed to demonstrate a benefit of these medications for young children. In addition, OTC medications can be associated with significant morbidity and even mortality in both acute overdoses and when administered in correct doses for chronic periods of time. Physicians often do not inquire about OTC medication use, and parents (or other caregivers) often do not perceive OTCs as medications. We present 3 cases of adverse outcomes over a 13-month period-including 1 death-as a result of OTC cough and cold medication use. We explore the toxicities of OTC cough and cold medications, discuss mechanisms of dosing errors, and suggest why physicians should be more vigilant in specifically inquiring about OTCs when evaluating an ill child.