Cough syrup is killing children! Doctors explain when to exercise caution and what to keep in mind..

These days, news of children dying from cough syrups is continuously emerging from different parts of the country. In states like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, several children died after consuming dextromethorphan-containing syrups. This news has caused an uproar.

The use of cough syrups is quite common in our country. Especially when children have coughs, people often give them medicine to get relief quickly. However, the use of cough syrups in the pursuit of relief is proving fatal for children. Therefore, we spoke with Dr. Vivek Jain, Unit Head and Senior Director of Pediatrics at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, to answer five questions related to this drug:

What is dextromethorphan?
Dextromethorphan is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter cough syrups that provide relief from dry coughs. It affects the part of the brain called the cough center, which is responsible for coughing.

Dextromethorphan, when used correctly, is safe for adults. However, it is generally not considered suitable for children. High doses can cause adverse effects, so dextromethorphan should not be taken without consulting a doctor.

What is considered safe?
It is generally accepted that adults can take 10-20 mg every 4 hours or 30 mg every 6-8 hours. Thus, the daily dosage should not exceed 120 mg. Expert opinions on children vary, depending on their age and weight.

Some experts caution against recommending any cough syrup for children under six years of age. Regarding height and weight, always consult your doctor before giving your child cough syrup.

Do children really need cough syrup?
Children with colds generally don't need cough syrup. Coughing is a natural response that clears mucus and germs from the airways. Instead of cough syrup, doctors usually recommend remedies like warm water, honey (for children over 1 year old), or saline drops (nasal spray for children). Doctors say that if you regularly give your child cough syrup, you may be doing more harm than good.

Side Effects of Cough Syrup
Dextromethorphan cough syrup can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and stomach upset. Misuse or excessive use of cough syrup can cause serious side effects in children, such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or death. Long-term use of cough syrup can lead to dependence. Therefore, it's best to follow your doctor's instructions for the correct dosage.

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