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VICK'S CHILDREN'S NYQUIL
Ingredients: per 15ml (3tsp)
- Chlorpheniramine maleate 2mg (antihistamine)
- Pseudoephedrine HCL 30mg (decongestant)
- Dextromethorphan HBr 15mg (cough suppressant)
WHEN TO USE
Frequent cough, runny nose, nasal congestion, chest congestion. I only use a cold
medication like this if my child's symptoms are interfering with sleep, eating or if they are generally
miserable with congestion. The antihistamine and decongestant combination in this
cold medication will temporarily relieve most symptoms of the common cold. It opens up nasal
congestion and dries up nasal secretions. It also helps reduce cough caused by secretions running down
the throat. The Dextromethorphan (DM for short) is the cough suppressant part of this
medication. It will offer temporary relief to that nagging cough caused by a "tickle" in the throat. The
combination of DM and the other ingredients will usually help your child get some much-needed rest for
a few hours.
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HELPFUL TIP FOR TREATING COLDS
When I give my children cold medication, I have found that the nasal passages can become
too dry, that's why it's important to use saline nasal spray throughout the day and a humidifier in
the bedroom (see natural cold treatments).
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SAFETY/SIDE EFFECTS
It is safe to use in children six-months-old and above. The sedative effects of the antihistamine
usually overcome the "revving-up" effects of the decongestant to produce an overall "calming" effect,
which will help your child sleep. Occasionally, the antihistamine has the opposite effect, which may lead
to some missed sleep but is not dangerous. Uncommon side effects are headache, upset stomach and
dizziness. If your child has a history of seizures, high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disease or is
taking medications for any of these conditions, consult your doctor before taking this medication. If your
child has Croup, do not use this medication because of its drying effect.
DOSING CHART
All doses are every 6 hours
| Under six months |
Not recommended |
| 6-11 months (17-21lbs) |
1 tsp (5ml) |
| 12-23 months (22-27lbs) |
1¼ tsp (6.25ml) |
| 2-5 years (28-47lbs) |
1½ tsp (7.5ml) |
| 6-11 years (48-95lbs) |
3 tsp (15ml) |
| 12 years and up (>95lbs) |
2 Tablespoon (30ml) |
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