Please note: This information was current at the time of publication but now may be out of date. This handout provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. 

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Am Fam Physician. 2012;86(2):online

See related article on treatment of the common cold in children and adults.

What do I do if my child has a cold?

Most colds don't cause serious illness and will get better over time. Cold symptoms can be treated with some over-the-counter remedies, although some over-the-counter treatments shouldn't be used in young children. Always talk to your doctor before giving your child over-the-counter treatments.

What over-the-counter treatments are helpful in children?

  • Buckwheat honey: Eases cough, but shouldn't be used in children younger than one year

  • Nasal saline spray: Helps sore throat, runny nose, and stuffy nose

  • Pelargonium sidoides (geranium) extract (one brand: Umcka Coldcare): Eases cough and can help your child breathe better through the nose

  • Vapor rub: Eases cough, but your child may not like the strong smell

  • Zinc sulfate syrup: Decreases how long your child has cold symptoms, but it may cause a bad taste in the mouth and upset your child's stomach

What treatments are not helpful in children?

  • Antibiotics

  • Echinacea purpurea

  • Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines

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