Drug alternatives: No cold meds for small children

Pediatricians recommend that parents avoid using multisymptom cold medicines with babies and children under age 6. Their suggestions for alternative remedies:

For a stuffy nose: Saline drops and a nasal syringe. It’s as good as any decongestant, said Dr. David Bare, medical director for CHAS, the Community Health Association of Spokane. Turn on a humidifier, especially at night. Give extra fluids.

For a cough: Try hot tea with honey and lemon, but only in children older than 12 months. It really does work, said Dr. Deb Harper, a Spokane pediatrician. Or mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of table sugar in 4 to 8 ounces of water. Or try ice chips or popsicles.

For fever, aches: Offer single doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen in appropriate amounts.

For general illness: “Hold them more, love them more, make them feel comfortable and take away the pain,” said Dr. Duane Craddock, of Post Falls. Chicken soup helps too, he said.