For treating children less than two years old (some experts say three years), there simply isn't any medication that can relieve cold symptoms. In fact, pediatricians know this from an established body of research involving hundreds of children who have been treated with cold medicines — decongestants and cough suppressants. For children less than three years, there is no proven benefit from these medications. Most of them would probably be better off if parents blew kisses at them because at least the kisses would not cause any side effects.

While it is true that most of these medications are quite safe in older children, the risk for infants is often overlooked by parents and even health professionals. If given appropriately at the right dose and interval, there would be no harm done in most cases. But why should you give something to your child that doesn't help at all and risk even the small possibility of adverse reactions?