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Cold Medications & Children

- Summary
- About cold medications & children
- Types and differences
- Conditions of concern
- Potential side effects
- Drug or other interactions
- Symptoms of overdose
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Rafiu Ariganjoye, M.D., MBA, FAAP

Potential side effects of cold medications

Children who take over-the-counter cold medications may experience dried-out respiratory passages and thickened nasal secretions. Overuse of nasal decongestants can lead to a “rebound effect” in which the drug becomes less potent and nasal congestion begins to worsen.

Other potential side effects associated with cold medications include:

  • Agitation
  • Anxiousness
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
    • Fast heartbeat (tachycardia) or slow heartbeat (bradycardia)
    • Fatigue
    • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • High blood sugar levels
  • Hyperactivity
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Loss of appetite (anorexia)
  • Nervousness
  • Nightmares
  • Racing heart
  • Restlessness
  • Retention of urine
  • Unusual excitement
  • Upset stomach

Drug or other interactions with cold medications

 

Parents should consult their child’s pediatrician before giving the child any additional prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, nutritional supplements or herbal medications. Substances that may preclude the use of decongestants or antihistamines include:

  • Anticholinergic drugs (used for abdominal or stomach spasms or cramps)

  • Antidepressants

  • Central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including alcohol

  • Digitalis glycosides (heart medication)

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Review Date: 02-14-2007

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