Kids' cough drugs may not work.(health)

Americans shelled out more than $270 million in 2003 on over-the-counter cough syrups, at least some of it for their children. But recent evidence suggests that OTC cough suppressants don't work in kids.

In a study published in the July 2004 issue of the journal Pediatrics, researchers from Pennsylvania State University asked the parents of 100 children ages 2 to 18 with coughs from upper-respiratory infections to monitor their kids' symptoms for two nights. The children were given either Benylin, which contains dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant); Diphen AF, which contains diphenhydramine (a cough-suppressing and sleepinducing antihistamine); or a sweetened placebo.

The drugs relieved coughs and improved sleep quality no better than the placebo. (Some other pediatric syrups with dextromethorphan are Children's Dimetapp and Children's Vicks Nyquil Cold-Cough Relief; others with diphenhydramine include Children's Benadryl Allergy Liquid and Children's Tylenol Plus Cold and Allergy Liquid.)

Previous research in children has yielded similar results. While the combined evidence does not prove kids' cough suppressants ineffective, it does call into question whether they're worth the effort, the cost, and the risk of adverse effects. In rare cases, even the recommended doses can cause muscle contractions. Dextromethorphan can also cause severe allergic reactions; ...