One important factor to consider when choosing a children's expectorant is the overall health of your child. Also, if she is exhibiting other cold symptoms as well, such as a cough or fever, you may want to choose a product designed to treat all these conditions. The age of your child can also play a factor in your choice of a medicine to break up chest mucus. Whether or not she is taking any other drugs should also be considered.
Two well-known pediatricians, Drs. Bill and Martha Sears, recommended that you do not give your child drugs that treat symptoms she does not have. This means you should carefully evaluate your young one to see whether or not she has other signs of a cold. If chest congestion is the only condition noted, you might want to purchase a medication that is designed solely to break up the mucous in this area.
These doctors also recommend not using a children's expectorant or any other type of cough syrup if the illness does not interfere with the daily activities of your child. Instead, they recommend using home remedies, such as drinking plenty of hot liquids or using steam to relieve her suffering.
When purchasing a children's expectorant, do not be intimidated by brand names. You should read the label of the bottle carefully to determine what the ingredients of the product are. If you compare an expensive brand with that of a generic or store brand, you might find they consist of the same elements. This can often help you save money when you are purchasing medication.
The age of your child can play an important part in your choice of children's expectorant. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that cough medicines designed for children under two years of age not be sold without a prescription. In addition, over-the-counter medicines are required to have a warning that states they are not suitable for children under four years old. If you have an infant or pre-school-aged child, you may want to consult her pediatrician before administering a drug.
Some types of prescription medications can interfere with the effectiveness of a children's cough syrup. Many times, the product label might state that the use of certain kinds of drugs can be harmful to your child. As a precaution, you may want to speak to a pharmacist or your child's doctor before beginning a treatment, if she is currently taking a prescription medicine.
Most of the time, a children's expectorant can help thin the mucous in your young one's chest and help her feel better. This is normally achieved without any dangerous side effects, as long as the medication is given according to the manufacturer's instructions. Children who do not respond to home treatment or who have high fevers should be treated by a medical professional.