During a 2-year period from 2004 and 2005, emergency departments treated over 1,500 children under the age of 2 years for adverse events related to over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medication use; these incidents include 3 infant deaths. The risk of overdose, incorrect dosing and adverse events is increased in young children due to the greater number of colds they acquire each year. Lack of evidence to support the use of OTC medications in young children is well documented in the literature; however, people continue to use OTC medications with young children. The common cold is generally a mild, self-limited illness that usually improves with time. Recommended care and treatment for ...