THE Irish Medicines Board has released a declaration that children under the age of six should no longer be given over-the-counter cough and cold remedies.

The IMB says that there is no major evidence that antihistamines, expectorants, decongestants and cough mixtures – see the list here – work for children under six and that they have been associated with side effects in some small children.

What do you think? Should over-the-counter cough and cold medicines be forbidden to under-6s?

Poll Results:

Not entirely - pharmacists should be able to issue these meds at their discretion. (438)

Not at all - the decision should be the parents' to make. (250)

Yes. (217)

I don't know. (92)

Yes.
Not entirely - pharmacists should be able to issue these meds at their discretion.
Not at all - the decision should be the parents' to make.
I don't know.

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Poll: Should cough and cold remedies be banned for the under-6s?

Poll Results:

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.