The government has taken its first step in raising awareness of the potential harmful side effects cough syrup can have on infants. It is a hard decision for a new parent to make, whether or not to treat their child’s cough, or let it run its course. The Food and Drug Administration, FDA, has issued a warning to parents about the side effects of these over the counter medications. These cough syrups have the risk of causing serious and potentially life threatening results.

Many over the counter cough syrups contain the active ingredients codeine and promethazine, which are both used recreationally by drug users. In developing infants, their systems are not fully developed and these drugs can be potentially lethal, even at the recommended dosage. Other side effects can include death, convulsions, rapid heart rates, and decreased levels of consciousness.

In the last two years, 1,500 babies and toddlers have wound up in the hospital after having a reaction to cold medicines, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Remember that these medicines do not cure the cold. They do not shorten time you child has a cold, and they’re only meant to help a child’s symptoms,” said Dr. Lisa Mathis, of the FDA.

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