New York (WPIX) — As we enter respiratory virus season, when runny noses and coughs in children turn into colds and flu, the Food and Drug Administration is warning of a link between popular cough medicines and a dramatic rise in poisoning in children. increase.
a study A paper published by the FDA found a 158% increase in childhood poisonings over an eight-year period involving the prescription drug Benzonatate, sold under the brand name Tessalon. Cough medicine he prescribed to children over the age of 10, but most cases of unintentional exposure involved children under the age of 5.
Because Tessalon capsules look like candy, the FDA believes they are contributing to an increase in accidental poisoning, primarily among young people ages 10 to 16. Dr. Anthony Santera, an infectious disease expert and professor of health care policy at the University of New Haven, feels that possible overmedication by parents may be another factor.
“There is a fine line between how far you can go with a prescription drug,” he said. but instead [it] Poisoning or death may result. ”
Dr. Santera says that signs of intoxication can appear as early as 15 minutes after ingestion. He says symptoms in severe cases can include tremors, seizures, convulsions, a slow heart rate, and major changes in breathing.
Tessarone is considered an excellent alternative to addictive opioids and is becoming increasingly common on the medicine cabinet. It states that it is imperative not to give cough medicines to children with asthma.
Doctors recommend age-appropriate home remedies for young children. Dr. Santera recommends clear liquids for children under 1 year of age.
“Add honey for children over the age of 1, and cough drops for children over the age of 6 to relieve tickling.”
The FDA recommends discussing your child’s condition with a pediatrician before giving your child any prescription drugs.
