Health Canada: No cough meds for kids under 6

As of Fall 2009, some nonprescription, orally-administered cough and cold medicine will have additional warnings on their labels: "Do not use this cough and cold product in children under 6 years of age." Over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medication with dosage information only for children under 6 will be removed from store shelves. The Scientific Advisory Council indicated in a report available at the Health Canada website that there is no significant evidence of benefit and there are risks of significant harm, including death, from the use of some of these drugs; it should be noted that the risks associated with taking many OTC cough and cold meds are very small. Health Canada recommends treating cold symptoms by allowing adequate rest and  plenty of clear fluids, along with providing a comfortable environment with adequate humidity.

A list of the affected incredients can be found here. You can view a poster with suggestions, links and contact information here. Other information can be found here.

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