Zarbee's Children's Cough Syrup: What to Know
Zarbee’s makes a range of children’s cough products that are widely available over the counter in the United States. Depending on the product, they may contain ingredients such as honey, agave, ivy leaf extract, or other soothing ingredients intended to help relieve cough and throat irritation.
Most coughs in children are caused by viral infections such as the common cold and improve on their own. These products may help soothe symptoms, but they do not treat the underlying infection or make a cold go away faster.
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How do I give it?
Zarbee’s products come in several formulations, so the appropriate dose and age range depend on the specific product. Always follow the directions on the package and use the measuring device supplied with the product.
Do not give honey-containing products to children younger than 12 months because honey can cause infant botulism.
Do not give more than the recommended amount or combine several cough and cold products unless you have checked the ingredients carefully. If your child’s cough is getting worse, lasts longer than expected, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, contact your child’s healthcare provider.
How does it work?
Many Zarbee’s children’s cough products use honey or other soothing ingredients rather than traditional cough-suppressant medications.
Honey can coat and soothe an irritated throat and may help reduce coughing, particularly at night, in children over 1 year of age. Other ingredients vary by product and may be included to soothe the throat or help loosen mucus.
These products provide symptom relief only. They do not cure the common cold or treat bacterial or viral infections.
Who should not use it?
Do not give a product to your child if they are allergic to any of its ingredients.
Honey-containing products should never be given to children younger than 1 year because of the risk of infant botulism.
Check the age restrictions on each individual product, because Zarbee’s formulations are made for different age groups. Do not use a product intended for older children or adults in a younger child.
Talk with your child’s healthcare provider before using a cough product if your child has a chronic medical condition, takes other medications, or has persistent or recurrent coughing.
Are there any side effects?
Most children tolerate honey-based cough products well. Possible side effects depend on the ingredients and may include stomach upset, diarrhea, or an allergic reaction.
Stop using the product and seek medical advice if your child develops a rash or other unexpected symptoms.
Call 911 if your child has signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, severe swelling of the lips, tongue, mouth, or throat, or trouble swallowing.
Seek medical care promptly if your child has difficulty breathing, blue lips, signs of dehydration, unusual sleepiness, a high or persistent fever, or symptoms that are getting worse rather than improving.
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