Cough Medicine Should Be Used With Caution

In Spring 2007, federal drug regulators started a broad review of the safety of popular cough and cold remedies meant for children.

In higher than normal doses, cold medicines can affect the heart’s electrical system, leading to arrhythmias. Some medicines affect the blood vessels and, in high doses, have been associated with hypertension and stroke. In rare cases, children have been injured even when given recommended doses.