Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

6 minutes read. Updated 3:12 Am GMT Sun, 8 September, 2024

In Nigeria, as in many other parts of the world, the common cold remains a frequent affliction among children. On average, young ones catch colds six to eight times a year, with the incidence peaking during the rainy and colder seasons when children are confined indoors and in closer proximity to one another. These colds are primarily caused by viruses that invade the nose, throat, and sinuses. The U.S. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) highlights that, despite the prevalence of these infections, cold and cough medicines are not always the best solution for young patients.

Understanding the Cold and the Risks of Medicines

The ‘common cold’ is a viral infection that spreads through airborne particles or via contaminated surfaces touched by unclean hands, coughs, or sneezes. Children, with their still-developing immune systems, are particularly vulnerable. According to Adebola Orimadegun, a professor of pediatrics at the Institute of Child Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, many colds resolve on their own without the need for antiviral treatments.

Professor Orimadegun explains that coughing is a natural mechanism for expelling mucus and irritants from the respiratory tract. Thus, suppressing it with medicine might not only be ineffective but could also be detrimental. He warns that some over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines can pose serious risks, including slowed breathing, which is potentially life-threatening, especially for infants and young children.

FDA Guidelines and Local Practices

The FDA specifically advises against the use of OTC cough and cold medicines in children under 2 years old and strongly cautions against their use in children younger than 4 years old. These medicines can be dangerous if administered in excessive doses, taken too frequently, or if combined with other products containing similar active ingredients. Yet, in Nigeria, despite these warnings, studies reveal that parents frequently use these medicines for children under 2, despite a lack of proven efficacy for this age group.

Market Trends and Local Needs

The Nigerian market for cold and cough remedies has seen a significant uptick, with revenue projected to reach US$224.00 million in 2024, according to Statista. This growth is driven by a rising young population and an increased prevalence of cold and cough symptoms, spurred by seasonal variations in temperature and humidity. Manufacturers are responding by offering a diverse range of child-friendly products designed to appeal to younger consumers, featuring flavors and packaging tailored for kids.

Risks of Over-the-Counter Medications

In babies, common side effects of cold medicines can include hallucinations, nausea, vomiting, irritability, dilated pupils, rapid heart rate, and drowsiness. The complexity of many cold medicines, which often contain multiple active ingredients, increases the risk of accidental overdose, particularly when combined with other medications.

Research has shown that OTC medicines generally do not offer more benefit than placebos for treating cold symptoms. Professor Orimadegun emphasizes that while antibiotics and Vitamin C are often mistakenly believed to prevent or cure colds, they do not address the underlying viral infection. Instead, rest, hydration, and appropriate symptom management are crucial.

Recommended Practices for Cold Relief

For managing cold and cough symptoms in children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using OTC medicines for pain or fever relief, honey for cough relief in children over one year old, and ensuring plenty of rest and hydration. Additionally, using a cool mist humidifier and saline nose drops can help alleviate nasal congestion and make breathing easier.

Meta Description: Learn why cold medicines are often not recommended for children, according to experts. Discover safer alternatives and understand the risks associated with OTC remedies.