Decongestant Dubbed Ineffective

The Food and Drug Administration recently announced that phenylephrine, a decongestant found in hundreds of the most common over-the-counter cold and flu medicines available, is ineffective when taken orally in pill or liquid form, leaving parents wondering what their children can use when under the weather. “Cold and cough medications in general are not recommended in children under 6 years old as they can lead to accidental overdosing, as many of these products contain multiple medications,” said Rajitha Julapalli, M.D., pediatrician at Pediatrix® Urgent Care of Texas.  As far as what does work for little ones, “saline drops and suctioning the nose with a bulb suction/NoseFrida can often help in infants and younger children,” said Dr. Julapalli. “In older children, saline sprays, teaching children to blow their nose well and saline solutions with a clean Neti Pot are options. Cool mist humidifiers in the room or blowing their nose in a steamy shower/bathroom can help as well. It is best to consult with your pediatrician regarding any medications.”

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