Q: What can I give my 3 year old if she has a cold?
A: Most OTC children’s cold medications are not effective and should be avoided if younger than 6 years old. However, for children older than 2 years, several useful alternatives exist. A tablespoon of honey is effective for cough. A cool mist humidifier works well for nasal dryness while Vick’s Baby Rub is a good option for nasal congestion. Acetaminophen can treat mild fever and body aches. Rest and hydration are always important while a cold runs its course. See your doctor if symptoms last more than 3-5 days.
This question was prepared by pharmacy student Brittany Brannon.
