What to Know About Over-the-Counter Meds for Kids

Because sniffles, fevers, and mystery stomach aches never check the clock.

If you’ve ever found yourself squinting at a medicine label at 2 a.m. with a feverish toddler on your hip, you’re not alone. Parenting doesn't come with a manual — but luckily, your neighborhood pharmacy kind of does.

At Palisade Pharmacy, we know that when your child’s not feeling well, you want fast, safe relief. So we’ve put together this no-nonsense guide to over-the-counter (OTC) meds for kids — what works, what to avoid, and when to ask for help (spoiler: anytime you want).

Cold, Coughs & The Sneezy Stuff

The Good News: Most colds are harmless. The bad news? They make your kid miserable — and you sleep-deprived.

• For younger kids (under 6): Skip the cold meds. Instead, reach for saline spray, a cool mist humidifier, and honey (for kids over 1 — nature’s cough drop!).

• For older kids: Some children's cold medications can help ease congestion or cough, but always check age and dosing.

  
  

Avoid: Adult meds, combo products (those “do-it-all” bottles can do too much), and anything with multiple active ingredients unless you really know what you’re doing (or you’ve got a pharmacist friend — hint: we volunteer as tribute).

 Fever & Pain: What’s Okay?

Two words: Tylenol and ibuprofen.

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Good for fevers and pain. Safe for babies over 2 months.

• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): Helps with swelling too. Best for kids 6 months and up — but always give with food.

Pro Tip: Dose based on weight, not just age. And never use adult formulas for kids unless your pediatrician gives the green light.

Allergies Be Gone!

Seasonal allergies sneaking in? We’ve got solutions.

• Safe picks: Children’s Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra are great non-drowsy options.

• Sleepytime version: Benadryl works fast but can cause drowsiness (or make some kids totally hyper — fun surprise!).

Tummy Troubles: Handle With Care

Whether it’s "too much birthday cake" or something more, stomach issues are a rite of passage. Here’s how to handle them:

• Nausea/Vomiting: Most OTC nausea meds aren't recommended for young kids — hydration is key. Try Pedialyte or electrolyte pops.

• Constipation: Gentle options like MiraLAX can help, but check with your pediatrician or pharmacist first.

• Diarrhea: Focus on fluids, not meds. Avoid adult anti-diarrheals unless specifically instructed.

Pro Tip: The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is old-school but still helpful for recovery.

First: A Few Must-Know Rules

• ✔️ Use the included measuring tool — not a kitchen spoon.

• ✔️ Keep meds out of reach, even the grape-flavored ones they love.

• ✔️ Don’t play chemist: Check ingredients so you're not doubling up on something like acetaminophen across different products.

• ✔️ When in doubt, ask us! Seriously — that’s what we’re here for.

Your Pharmacist = Your Parenting Wingman

We know the shelves can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help you choose the right remedy without the guesswork. Whether your kid has the sniffles, a rash, or you’re just stocking up for the next “uh-oh” moment, Palisade Pharmacy has your back (and your boo-boo kit).

Stop by, call us, or swing through with questions — no appointment needed and no judgment for the yogurt-stained hoodie. We’ve seen worse.

Know When to Call the Doc

Sometimes, you need backup. Call your pediatrician if:

• The fever lasts more than 3 days

• Your baby (under 3 months) has any fever

• Symptoms worsen or don’t improve

• Your child seems really drowsy or can’t keep fluids down

Less Panic, More Preparedness

The goal isn’t to medicate every cough — it’s to treat what needs treating, and let your kid’s immune system do the rest. With the right meds (and the right advice), you can breathe easier.

Need help picking something out or want to double-check a label? Come talk to your Palisade Pharmacy team. We’re here for the sniffles, the sleepless nights, and the “is-this-normal?” questions.

Stay calm, stay kind, and keep the grape-flavored medicine flowing.