Cough syrup does not work

The over-the-counter cough medicines really do not have the desired effect, may even harm young children, US experts warn.

"There is no clinical evidence that cough coughs or syrups really work," said Dr. Richard Irwin,

Many mothers abuse cough syrup for children

University of Massachusetts, said. They are no better than over-the-counter pain relievers - especially dangerous for children.

Under the new guidelines of Chest Physicians, adults with chronic cough or with upper respiratory syndrome (typically a runny nose), older antihistamines should be used in combination with a nasal decongestant.Effective old antihistamines contain chlorpheniramine, while new products like Claritin and Zyrtec are not reliable.

For young children, although coughing fits are more annoying, cough syrup is not a solution."Coughs and colds are not really effective in children and can even be harmful. Often, coughs that are not related to chronic lung diseases, environmental factors . will go away on their own , " Irwin said.

Most of the researches that Chest Physicians consider have shown that over-the-counter cough treatments are less effective, in addition to acting as a sedative that gives a patient a pleasant feeling.

My Linh (according to Reuters)