The Safest Cough Medicines for Your 8 Month Old

The Safest Cough Medicines for Your 8 Month Old

Coughing is normal for babies and toddlers, but it can be worrying for parents to see their little ones suffer. Coughing is often a sign of an underlying problem, such as allergies, a cold, the flu, or pneumonia.

Many parents feel helpless when their child is coughing, but there are several safe and effective cough medicines available for infants and young children. In this article, we’ll discuss the safest cough medicines for your 8 month old.

Why Can’t I Just Use Any Cough Medicine?

It’s essential to choose the right cough medicine for your child, as some over-the-counter medicines can be dangerous for babies and toddlers. Many cough medicines contain ingredients that can cause adverse reactions, such as drowsiness, rapid heart rate, and even death in rare cases.

The FDA recommends that children below the age of two should avoid cough and cold medicines unless expressly directed by a medical professional.

As a parent, you want to make sure that you use only the safest cough medicines for your 8 month old. Here are some options to consider.

Glycerin, Honey, and Lemon Juice

If your 8 month old has a persistent cough, you can try using natural remedies such as glycerin, honey, and lemon juice. Mix equal amounts of honey and lemon juice with a little glycerin, and give your child one teaspoon before bed.

Honey contains antimicrobial properties and soothes the throat, while lemon juice helps break up congestion. Glycerin is an excellent cough suppressant that works by coating the throat.

Note that you should avoid giving honey to babies below one year old if they’ve never had it before because it poses a risk for infant botulism.

Saline Drops for Stuffy Nose

Stuffy nose can make it harder for your baby to breathe and can worsen coughing. Saline nasal drops or sprays can help loosen the mucus and relieve nasal congestion.

Saline drops don’t contain any medication, and they’re safe and gentle for infants. Apply a few drops in each nostril using a dropper or spray, wait for a minute, and then gently suction the mucus out of your baby’s nose with a bulb syringe.

Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for Fever

Fever is often a sign of an infection, such as a cold or the flu, and it can be accompanied by a cough. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to reduce fever and relieve pain in babies and young children.

Always consult with your child’s doctor before giving any medication, and read the dosing instructions carefully. Make sure you use the correct dosing device, such as a syringe or dropper, to avoid overdosing.

Specially Designed Cough Medicines for Babies

There are also cough medicines available on the market that are specifically designed for babies and young children. These medicines don’t contain any harmful ingredients and are safe and effective.

Always read the label carefully, and follow the dosage instructions provided. Don’t give two different cough medicines at the same time, as that can lead to an overdose.

Conclusion

Coughing can be distressing for both babies and parents, but choosing the right cough medicine can make a world of difference. Natural remedies such as glycerin, honey, and lemon juice can be helpful for a persistent cough, while saline drops can relieve nasal congestion.

For a fever, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used, and specially designed cough medicines for babies can be effective in reducing coughing. Always consult with your child’s doctor before giving any medication, and read the dosing instructions carefully. Remember to not give honey to infants below one year.