Over the Counter Medications Used for Cough and Cold Treatment in Children

Program length: 0.1 CEU
Target audiences: Pharmacists
Knowledge based activity

EXPIRES: June 7, 2014

This course requires completion of survey and a 70% passing quiz grade to receive certificate.

Universal Activity Number: 0048-0000-11-034-H01-P

Course Cost: $10

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Description:

Over the counter (OTC) medications have been marketed for use in children of all ages for years. These medications include analgesics, antihistamines, decongestants, cough suppressants, vitamins, topical treatments, and many more. In fact, there are over 800 OTCs just for the treatment of cough and cold. These medications are continually purchased; on average about 95 million packages of medication are sold each year to treat cough and cold in children.1 However, just because these medications are marketed for use in children, does not mean that they are safe or effective, and in actuality, many are not.

Objectives:

At the completion of this program, the participant will be able to:

1. Outline the history of OTC medication use in children to treat cough and cold.
2. Describe the risks and benefits of OTC use in children.
3. Identify and explain coughs associated with acute Upper Respiratory Infections versus coughs due to an underlying condition, and possible treatments for both.
4. Recommend proper treatments for children with coughs and colds.
5. Recognize the importance of educating both parents and pediatric Health Care Professionals about OTC use in children.