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Best Cough Meds For Kids (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for cough meds for kids, you’ve come to the right place! As a parent, nothing is more distressing than seeing your child feeling unwell. Cough and colds are some of the most common illnesses that kids go through. Fortunately, there are various cough meds in the market that can help relieve your child’s discomfort. But before you buy any product, there are things to consider.

First and foremost, always check the label and ingredients of the cough meds you wish to purchase. Make sure it’s suitable for your child’s age and that it won’t cause any adverse reactions. You should also consider the form of the cough medication – whether it’s in liquid or tablet form. Remember, it’s essential to choose the right dosage and give it at the right intervals.

When buying cough meds for kids, you might also want to consider natural remedies as these are great alternatives to over-the-counter drugs. Additionally, talking to your child’s pediatrician before choosing any medication is always a wise decision.

Are you concerned about the safety and effectiveness of cough meds for kids? Do you want to know which cough meds are the best for your child’s needs? Keep reading to know more about cough meds and how they can help your kids.

10 Best Cough Meds For Kids

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for providing relief from coughs, nasal and chest congestion, runny nose, and sore throat in children.
2
This product is ideal for relieving cough and chest congestion in children who are at least a certain age.
3
This product is ideal for helping children with nighttime coughing and is free from harmful additives such as dyes and preservatives.
4
Boiron Chestal is ideal for relieving symptoms of cold and cough in children, including nasal and chest congestion, runny nose, and sore throat.
5
This product is ideal for relieving nighttime coughs in children with long-lasting effects and a fruity taste.
6
This product is ideal for providing natural relief of mucus and congestion in children ages 2-12.
7
Mucinex Children's Multi-Symptom Day/Night Liquid is ideal for relieving cold and cough symptoms in children.
8
The product is ideal for providing natural sleep support to children with the help of melatonin and vitamin D.
9
It is an over-the-counter medication for children's cold relief, specifically focusing on nasal decongestion.
10
This product is ideal for providing pain and fever relief to infants.
It is ideal for providing relief from coughs, nasal and chest congestion, runny nose, and sore throat in children.
This product is ideal for relieving cough and chest congestion in children who are at least a certain age.
This product is ideal for helping children with nighttime coughing and is free from harmful additives such as dyes and preservatives.
Boiron Chestal is ideal for relieving symptoms of cold and cough in children, including nasal and chest congestion, runny nose, and sore throat.
This product is ideal for relieving nighttime coughs in children with long-lasting effects and a fruity taste.
This product is ideal for providing natural relief of mucus and congestion in children ages 2-12.
Mucinex Children's Multi-Symptom Day/Night Liquid is ideal for relieving cold and cough symptoms in children.
The product is ideal for providing natural sleep support to children with the help of melatonin and vitamin D.
It is an over-the-counter medication for children's cold relief, specifically focusing on nasal decongestion.
This product is ideal for providing pain and fever relief to infants.

1. Honey Cough Syrup – Nasal & Chest Relief.

Children's Chestal Honey is a natural homeopathic medicine that offers relief from all types of common coughs. This cough syrup contains natural honey that coats and soothes the throat, providing much-needed relief. The blend of safe homeopathic medicines in Chestal Honey works by loosening chest congestion, making all types of common coughs more productive for a speedier recovery.

This cough syrup is a day and night solution, calming those dry, fitful coughs at bedtime so they don't prevent sleep, without causing drowsy side effects during the day. Children's Chestal Honey is recommended for everyone aged 2 and above and is available in 6.7 fl oz bottles for both adults and children. It works naturally with the body, providing effective relief from coughs.

At Boiron, they believe that there's more than one way to feel better. The Boiron family has been committed to providing quality medicines since 1932. As a world leader in homeopathy, their passion is your health, and their promise is your satisfaction.

Pros

  • Contains natural honey that soothes the throat
  • Blend of safe homeopathic medicines to relieve chest congestion and common coughs
  • Day and night solution, calming dry coughs at bedtime without causing drowsiness during the day
  • Recommended for everyone aged 2 and above
  • Works naturally with the body

2. Grape Flavor Kids Cough & Congestion Relief.

The Children's Robitussin Cough and Chest Congestion DM is a cough suppressant liquid medicine that comes in a 4 fl oz bottle with a grape flavor. It contains an antihistamine that provides temporary relief from coughs and thins and loosens mucus, providing chest congestion relief in children. This medication is specially designed for children aged 4 and up and can be taken every four hours while symptoms persist.

The formula of this grape flavored cough medicine is designed for daytime use, providing relief without causing drowsiness. The syrup is easy and quick to take, making it a great choice for parents and kids. Moreover, this product is HSA and FSA eligible, making it an affordable option for parents looking for effective cough and chest congestion relief for their children.

Pros

  • Contains antihistamine to provide temporary relief from coughs
  • Thins and loosens mucus for chest congestion relief in children
  • Easy and quick to take cough suppressant liquid medicine
  • Great-tasting grape flavor
  • Daytime cough medicine formula provides relief without causing drowsiness
  • HSA and FSA eligible product, making it an affordable option for parents

3. Wellements Organic Kids Nighttime Cough Syrup, 4 Fl Oz, Free From Dyes, Parabens, Preservatives…

The Organic Nighttime Kids Cough Syrup is a natural and organic formula that helps soothe dry throats from occasional coughs in children. It is a perfect solution for parents who want to help their children with a cough without compromising on their health. The cough syrup is made up of organic wild cherry bark, slippery elm, and honey formula that helps in relieving coughs. Additionally, immunity-supporting elderberry and zinc are added to fortify and boost the immune system of the child. The cough syrup also contains Organic Lemon Balm Extract and Passionflower Extract that helps in relaxing the little ones, making it easier for them to have a good night's sleep.

Recommended for children aged 1 year and above, the dosage for children aged 1-3 years is 1 tsp (5 ml), and for children aged 4 years and above is 2 tsp (10 ml). It is advised to shake well before each use and may be given every 4 hours up to 6 times in a 24-hour period or as directed by a physician. When using in combination with Organic Nighttime Children’s Cough Syrup, do not exceed a total of 6 combined servings within 24 hours. This cough syrup is free from gluten, dairy, soy, dyes, parabens, artificial colors, artificial flavors, and preservatives, making it a safe option for children.

Wellements is committed to helping families grow and stay healthy by providing them with the best products. All of their products are USDA certified organic, made without the use of chemical preservatives, and bottled in glass, which ensures that the products are of high quality and healthy. Using the Organic Nighttime Kids Cough Syrup is a great way to ensure that your child gets the relief they need without compromising their health.

Pros

  • Made from natural and organic ingredients
  • Helps soothe dry throats and occasional coughs
  • Contains immunity-supporting elderberry and zinc
  • Free from gluten, dairy, soy, dyes, parabens, artificial colors, artificial flavors, and preservatives
  • Contains Organic Lemon Balm Extract and Passionflower Extract that helps in relaxing the child

Cons

  • – The cough syrup should not be given to children under 1 year old

4. Kid's Relief Nasal & Chest Congestion Syrup

This medication is specially formulated to relieve common cold symptoms such as chest and nasal congestion, sneezing, fitful cough, runny or stuffy nose, and minor sore throat. It is suitable for children aged 3 years and above.

This medication is free from dyes, and it does not cause drowsiness. It also does not interact with other drugs, making it safe to use in combination with other medications.

The medication contains active ingredients that work by reducing inflammation of the nasal passages and relieving cough and congestion. It provides relief from cold symptoms without causing drowsiness, which makes it ideal for use during the day.

Pros

  • Relieves common cold symptoms such as nasal and chest congestion, sneezing, fitful cough, runny or stuffy nose, and minor sore throat.
  • Suitable for children aged 3 years and above.
  • Free from dyes, non-drowsy, and does not react with other drugs, making it safe for use with other medications.
  • Contains active ingredients that work by reducing inflammation of the nasal passages and relieving cough and congestion.
  • Ideal for daytime use as it does not cause drowsiness.

5. Kid's Sleep Syrup, Fruit Punch Flavor.

The Children's Robitussin Nighttime Cough Long-Acting DM is a reliable cough medicine that provides temporary relief for kids. It comes in a 4 fl oz bottle with a fruit punch flavor that kids will surely love. This cough syrup is specially formulated to relieve cough and runny nose symptoms for up to eight hours, allowing children to sleep soundly at night. It is easy and quick to take, making it a great option for parents who want to help their kids feel better fast.

The formula of this nighttime cough relief medicine is designed to alleviate the impulse to cough, making kids more comfortable during their bouts of coughing. It is recommended for children aged six and above, and should be taken every six hours while symptoms persist. This product is HSA and FSA eligible, making it an affordable and accessible option for families who need over-the-counter cough medicine for their children.

Overall, the Children's Robitussin Nighttime Cough Long-Acting DM is a great-tasting and effective cough medicine that parents can rely on to provide temporary cough relief for their kids. With its long-acting formula and easy-to-take liquid form, it is a must-have in any family's medicine cabinet.

Pros

  • Long-acting formula provides up to eight hours of relief
  • Great-tasting fruit punch flavor
  • Easy and quick to take
  • Alleviates impulse to cough for more comfortable sleep

Cons

  • – Only recommended for children aged six and above

6. Hyland's Kids Combo Pack: Cough & Mucus Relief

Hyland's Naturals Kids Cold Medicine provides natural relief of symptoms such as cough, mucus, congestion, runny nose, and sleeplessness. Its natural grape-flavored syrup is not only great-tasting but also easy to take. With natural active ingredients, it is free of alcohol, sugar, parabens, artificial flavors, and dyes, making it a safe choice for kids.

Hyland's Naturals has been a trusted name in the consumer health industry with more than a century of history in making high-quality products. The brand is committed to keeping families healthy and offers a daytime and nighttime formula to provide relief around the clock.

The daytime formula offers relief from cold symptoms such as cough, congestion, and runny nose without causing drowsiness, ensuring that kids can stay active during the day. The nighttime formula provides relief from cold symptoms and also helps kids sleep better at night. It is formulated to relieve coughs, congestion, and runny nose and promote relaxation to help kids get the rest they need to recover.

Hyland's Naturals Kids Cold Medicine is a natural and effective way to relieve cold symptoms in children, making it a must-have for every family's medicine cabinet.

Pros

  • Provides natural relief of cold symptoms such as cough, mucus, congestion, runny nose, and sleeplessness
  • Natural grape-flavored syrup is great-tasting and easy to take
  • Free of alcohol, sugar, parabens, artificial flavors, and dyes, making it a safe choice for kids
  • Offers a daytime and nighttime formula to provide relief around the clock
  • Daytime formula offers relief from cold symptoms without causing drowsiness
  • Nighttime formula provides relief from cold symptoms and promotes relaxation to help kids sleep better

Cons

  • – May not provide relief for severe cold symptoms

7. Cold & Cough, Mucinex Children's Multi-Symptom Day/night Liquid, Very Berry, 4 Fl Oz (Pack Of 2)

Mucinex Children's Multi-Symptom Day Time Cold Relief is a specially formulated medicine that provides relief from cough, chest congestion, stuffy nose, and also helps to thin and loosen mucus. It contains Dextromethorphan HBr for cough suppression, Guaifenesin as an expectorant, and Phenylephrine HCl for nasal decongestion. This medicine is suitable for children aged 4 and above.

Mucinex Children's Multi-Symptom Night Time Cold Relief is a powerful medicine that helps to reduce fever, control cough, relieve stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat. It contains Acetaminophen as a pain reliever/fever reducer, Diphenhydramine HCI as an Antihistamine/Cough Suppressant, and Phenylephrine HCl for nasal decongestion. This medicine is suitable for children aged 6 and above.

Mucinex Children's Multi-Symptom Cold Relief products are the #1 Pediatrician Recommended Brand among Non-Homeopathic Children's Cough/Cold OTC products. These medicines are available in Very Berry Flavor and should be used as directed.

To ensure the safety of your child, do not give Mucinex Children's Day Time Multi-Symptom Cold and Mucinex Children's Night Time Multi-Symptom Cold liquids at the same time. Always wait for at least 4 hours before giving another dose of Mucinex Children's Liquid. It is also important not to give more than a total of 5 doses in any 24-hour period.

Pros

  • Provides relief from multiple cold symptoms in one medicine
  • Contains active ingredients that suppress cough, relieve chest congestion, and thin and loosen mucus
  • The #1 Pediatrician Recommended Brand among Non-Homeopathic Children's Cough/Cold OTC products
  • Suitable for children aged 4 and above (Day Time) and 6 and above (Night Time)
  • Available in Very Berry Flavor

Cons

  • – Should not be given to children under 4 years old (Day Time) or 6 years old (Night Time)
  • – Should not be given more than a total of 5 doses in any 24-hour period

8. Sleepberry: Natural Melatonin Support For Kids

Looking for a natural way to promote relaxation and improved rest for the whole family? Look no further than these melatonin drops for kids from a trusted brand. Unlike other melatonin supplements, this children's melatonin supplement is 100% nature-sourced and formulated with premium ingredients such as Elderberry and Vitamin D3 to aid in overall wellbeing. Parents can finally enjoy restful nights and cheerful mornings with their little ones thanks to this gentle and effective sleep support.

This kid-friendly liquid melatonin is perfect for children age 2 and up, with a tasty berry flavor that they will love. Simply add a few drops to their favorite food or drink to ensure a lovely bedtime routine without any fuss. And the best part? These sugar-free melatonin drops for toddlers are a non-habit forming solution, making them suitable for the whole family to use every night. Try it today and experience the benefits of natural sleep support for your entire family!

Pros

  • 100% nature-sourced and formulated with premium ingredients
  • Gentle and effective sleep support for the whole family
  • Tasty berry flavor that kids will love
  • Non-habit forming solution for establishing and sticking to bedtime routines

9. Berry Blast Cold Relief For Kids

Children's Sudafed PE Nasal Decongestant is the perfect solution for kids suffering from nasal congestion and sinus pressure caused by hay fever and the common cold. The 4-fluid ounce bottle provides temporary relief to children aged 4-11 years old. It is a non-drowsy nasal decongestant formula, which means that it won't make your child feel sleepy. The medicine is also alcohol-free and sugar-free, making it a safe option for your child.

The active ingredient in this nasal decongestant is phenylephrine HCl, which helps alleviate nasal congestion and sinus pressure. The kid-friendly berry flavor makes it easy for children to take this medication without any fuss. The non-drowsy formula provides relief from both sinus pressure and nasal congestion caused by the common cold and allergies. This cold medicine is a must-have for parents to help their children feel better.

The Children's Sudafed PE Nasal Decongestant comes in a 4-fluid ounce bottle, making it a perfect size for parents to keep on hand. It is a safe and effective way to help relieve your child's nasal congestion and sinus pressure. The non-drowsy formula ensures that your child can continue their daily activities without feeling drowsy or tired.

Pros

  • Provides temporary relief for nasal congestion and sinus pressure caused by hay fever and the common cold
  • Non-drowsy and alcohol-free
  • Kid-friendly berry flavor
  • Suitable for children aged 4-11 years old
  • Comes in a 4-fluid ounce bottle

10. Tylenol Infants Acetaminophen Liquid Medicine, Pain & Fever Relief, Grape, 2 Fl. Oz

Infants' Tylenol Oral Suspension Liquid Medicine is a safe and effective way to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains in your little one caused by the common cold, flu, sore throat, or toothache. It is available in a 2-fluid ounce bottle and has a kid-friendly grape flavor that is gentle on little tummies. The medicine also starts to reduce fever in as little as 15 minutes.

Each 5-milliliter dose of the Infants' Tylenol pain reliever medicine contains 160 milligrams of acetaminophen, which is a known pain reliever and fever reducer. The medicine is formulated to be ibuprofen-free, aspirin-free, and alcohol-free, making it safe for your child to consume.

The Infants' Tylenol pain and fever relief medicine comes with a SimpleMeasure dosing syringe, which is included for dispensing the proper dosage for your child's age and weight. The dosing is available for children 2-3 years of age. It is recommended to ask a doctor about the dosage for children under 2 years of age.

Infants' Tylenol is the #1 pediatrician-recommended brand of pain reliever and fever reducer, and it is also the #1 pediatrician-recommended brand for teething pain. You can trust the quality and effectiveness of the product to relieve your little one's pain and fever.

Pros

  • Safe and effective way to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains caused by the common cold, flu, sore throat, or toothache
  • Kid-friendly grape flavor that is gentle on little tummies
  • Starts to reduce fever in as little as 15 minutes
  • Each 5-milliliter dose contains 160 milligrams of acetaminophen
  • Formulated to be ibuprofen-free, aspirin-free, and alcohol-free
  • Comes with a SimpleMeasure dosing syringe for dispensing the proper dosage for your child's age and weight
  • Recommended by pediatricians as the #1 brand of pain reliever and fever reducer, and for teething pain

Best Cough Meds For Kids FAQs

At what age can kids start taking cough meds?

Children can start taking cough medicine at the age of four years old. However, it is important to note that cough medicine should only be given to children under the guidance and recommendation of a healthcare professional. In general, cough medicines should not be given to children under the age of four because they may not be able to tolerate the medication or may experience adverse effects from the medication.

It is important to understand that cough medicine does not cure the underlying cause of a cough, but rather helps to alleviate the symptoms of coughing. Therefore, it is important to identify the root cause of the cough and address it appropriately. For example, if a cough is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be necessary to clear the infection and alleviate the cough.

Ultimately, parents should consult with their child's healthcare provider before giving any medication to their child, including cough medicine. The healthcare provider can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage and frequency of use, as well as any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.

Can cough meds for kids cause any side effects?

Yes, cough medications for kids can cause side effects. Some of the common side effects of cough medicines include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, and headache. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, there are some serious side effects that parents should be aware of.

One of the serious side effects of cough medicines is respiratory depression, where the breathing becomes slow and shallow. This can be life-threatening, especially in young children. Other serious side effects include seizures, hallucinations, and allergic reactions.

It is important to note that cough medicines should not be given to children under the age of 4, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Additionally, parents should always read the label and follow the dosage instructions carefully. If your child experiences any side effects after taking cough medicine, stop giving the medication and consult your healthcare provider.

How often should cough meds for kids be given?

Coughing can be quite discomforting for children and their parents. While cough medications can provide some relief, it is essential to use them cautiously, considering the age of the child and the type of cough.

Firstly, it is crucial to note that cough medications are not recommended for children below the age of four years. For children above four years, it is advisable to use cough medications only if the cough is disturbing the child's sleep or causing significant discomfort.

When using cough medications, it is vital to follow the instructions on the label carefully. Some medications can be given every four hours, while others may be given every six to eight hours. Overdosing on cough medications can lead to adverse side effects, including drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting.

In addition to cough medications, parents can also help their children by ensuring that they drink plenty of fluids and by using a humidifier in the room to help soothe their airways. If the cough persists or worsens, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

In conclusion, cough medications should be used judiciously in children, following the instructions on the label and considering the child's age and type of cough. It is also crucial to use other remedies to help soothe the child's airways and consult a healthcare provider if the cough persists or worsens.

What are the ingredients to look for in cough meds for kids?

When it comes to choosing cough medication for kids, it's important to consider the ingredients carefully. The first thing to look for is whether the medication is suitable for children, as many cough medicines are only intended for adults. You should also check the active ingredients to ensure they are safe and effective for children. Some common ingredients found in cough medicine include dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that can help to reduce coughing, while guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that can help to relieve nasal congestion. However, it's important to note that some of these ingredients can have side effects, such as drowsiness or nervousness. Always read the label carefully and consult with a healthcare professional before giving any medication to a child.

What are the safest cough meds for kids?

As a content writer, I understand the concern of parents when it comes to finding safe medication for their children. Cough and cold are common ailments among children, and they can make them uncomfortable and restless. However, not all cough medications are safe for kids, especially those under the age of six. Some cough medications contain ingredients that can cause serious side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and even hallucinations.

To ensure the safety of your child, it is best to consult a pediatrician before giving any cough medication to your child. They can advise you on the appropriate dosage and type of medication suitable for your child's age and condition. In general, cough suppressants containing dextromethorphan (DM) are considered safe for children over six years old. However, it is still essential to read the label and follow the instructions carefully.

Natural remedies such as honey, warm liquids, and steam inhalation can also help ease cough symptoms in children. It is crucial to monitor your child's condition and seek medical attention if the cough persists or worsens. Remember, your child's health and safety should always come first.

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