Following the adult drug blacklist from 60 Millions de Consommateurs, Que Choisir magazine has released a critical list of dangerous medications for children. As experts in consumer health, they've highlighted risks from common brand-name drugs many parents unknowingly use.
Contrary to popular belief, children are not always protected from pharmaceutical risks. This comprehensive list flags 39 medications linked to serious or potentially fatal side effects.
Think twice before reaching for cough syrups or cold remedies. Que Choisir's analysis, grounded in clinical data and safety reviews, urges caution.
Here are the 39 drugs to avoid giving your children:
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Que Choisir also identifies ineffective drugs that offer no proven benefits for children—saving you money and avoiding unnecessary exposure.
Cough:
Against reflux:
Against diarrhea:
For infants under 3 months, consult a doctor if cough accompanies fever, breathing issues, or feeding difficulties. For older children, seek medical advice if symptoms persist beyond 3 days.
After 12 months, try organic honey mixed with organic natural yogurt. Elevate the bed head, ventilate daily, avoid smoke, and keep rooms at 19°C.
See a pediatrician promptly for babies under 6 months. For older kids, consult if no improvement after 5 days.
Use sterile saline sprays or a nasal aspirator like Prorhinel Baby. Learn proper technique to avoid injury.
Fever often signals the body's defense; don't always medicate, especially under 3 months or with concerning symptoms. Consult if over 48-72 hours. Prefer syrup over suppositories for dosing accuracy.
If growth is unaffected, opt for dietary tweaks like thickened feeds. Reflux typically resolves by 12-18 months.
Monitor for dehydration signs. Use oral rehydration solutions (e.g., Adiaril). Rice porridge works temporarily. Avoid soda. Seek urgent care for severe symptoms.
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