The FDA has concluded that OTC cough and cold products (including decongestants, expectorants, antihistamines, and antitussives) should not be used to treat infants and children younger than 2 years (FDA Press Release 2008 Jan 17; full-text available online free of charge at: www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2008/NEW01778.html; accessed April 10, 2008) and FDA Public Health Advisory 2008 Jan 17; full-text available online free of charge at: www.fda.gov/cder/drug/advisory/cough_cold_2008.htm; accessed April 10, 2008). Reported serious adverse effects are rare but have included death, convulsions, rapid heart rates, and decreased levels of consciousness.
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