to top 15 table

15 Best Cough Medicines for Kids & Toddlers in 2024

last updated Sep 07, 2020

It’s getting close to parents' least favorite season: flu season. We know how awful being sick can be. We also know that watching your child suffer through symptoms can make even the most equipped and grounded parents feel helpless and frustrated.

For new parents especially it is hard knowing if it is something that can be treated at home or is it something that requires a visit to the doctor? Is this over-the-counter medication actually going to alleviate symptoms and what are all of the ingredients in it? What is the responsible maximum number of popsicles for my child to be able to consume each day and why do they only like two of the five flavors in any box that we buy?

In a Hurry? The test winner after 26 hrs of research

icon
Boiron Coldcalm 60 Tablets
94.8/100 our score
Approved by Pediatricians
95
Safety
94
Effectiveness
96
Age Range
94
Boiron Coldcalm 60 Tablets
Why is it better?

All natural

Dissolves in the mouth; no big pills to swallow

Tastes good

Can prevent the onset of severe symptoms

Can shorten the duration of illness

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Boiron Coldcalm 60 Tablets
Test Winner: Boiron Coldcalm 60 Tablets
Amazon Link
Reviews Considered
150
Reviews Considered
Hours Researching
26
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
21
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Cassie Sheets:

It’s no fun being sick. Make your child a little more comfortable with a cough medicine from our list. We recently updated it to ensure all products were in stock and highly rated.

Sorting Options
Approved by Pediatricians Safety Effectiveness Age Range By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.8
Approved by Pediatricians
95 %
Safety
94 %
Effectiveness
96 %
Age Range
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$23.62
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Approved by Pediatricians
94 %
Safety
95 %
Effectiveness
93 %
Age Range
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Approved by Pediatricians
91 %
Safety
93 %
Effectiveness
92 %
Age Range
92 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$12.18
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91
Approved by Pediatricians
90 %
Safety
92 %
Effectiveness
91 %
Age Range
91 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$17.50
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90
Approved by Pediatricians
90 %
Safety
91 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Age Range
89 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$8.29
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.3
Approved by Pediatricians
89 %
Safety
88 %
Effectiveness
91 %
Age Range
89 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$4.56
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88
Approved by Pediatricians
89 %
Safety
88 %
Effectiveness
88 %
Age Range
87 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87
Approved by Pediatricians
87 %
Safety
88 %
Effectiveness
86 %
Age Range
87 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$19.99
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86
Approved by Pediatricians
85 %
Safety
86 %
Effectiveness
87 %
Age Range
86 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$7.68
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.3
Approved by Pediatricians
85 %
Safety
86 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Age Range
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
#11
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
84
Approved by Pediatricians
84 %
Safety
85 %
Effectiveness
83 %
Age Range
84 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$19.95
#12
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.3
Approved by Pediatricians
84 %
Safety
83 %
Effectiveness
83 %
Age Range
83 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$19.99
#13
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.8
Approved by Pediatricians
83 %
Safety
82 %
Effectiveness
84 %
Age Range
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
#14
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Approved by Pediatricians
84 %
Safety
82 %
Effectiveness
81 %
Age Range
83 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
#15
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80.5
Approved by Pediatricians
81 %
Safety
80 %
Effectiveness
80 %
Age Range
81 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.03.24)
Amazon Link
$19.19

15 Best Cough Medicines for Kids Reviewed

1. Boiron Coldcalm 60 Tablets

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.8
Boiron Coldcalm 60 Tablets
Boiron Coldcalm 60 Tablets
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
95
Safety
94
Effectiveness
96
Age Range
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$23.62

All natural

Dissolves in the mouth; no big pills to swallow

Tastes good

Can prevent the onset of severe symptoms

Can shorten the duration of illness

You have to take it fairly quickly; if you wait too long after you start feeling ill, it won’t do much

Pick up this pack of tablets if your child is fighting nasal congestion, a runny nose, or a minor sore throat.

Read more

Simply use two every fifteen minutes for the first two hours at the onset of symptoms. Then take two more tablets every hour thereafter until symptoms are relieved. Keep a box handy in the medicine cabinet so that you can kick your kids’ cold as fast as possible.

Various vitamins and minerals do naturally boost the immune system. If you’re already three days deep in heavy symptoms, this might not do much for you. But if you take it immediately at the onset, or close to it, you’ll be able to fight off germs faster, sometimes avoiding going down with whatever nasty bug is around, all together.

Coldcalm is recommended for ages three and up. It’s nondrowsy and the tablets are dissolvable, making them easy for young ones to take

2. Mucinex Children's Mini Melts

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Mucinex Children's Mini Melts
Mucinex Children's Mini Melts
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
94
Safety
95
Effectiveness
93
Age Range
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Granulated; easy to swallow, no liquid or pills

Contains aspartame

Should not be taken in conjunction with cough suppressantsBreaks up chest congestion

Helps kids sleep

Shortens the duration of coughs and colds

Comes in kid-friendly Bubblegum and Orange Cream flavors

Contains aspartame

Should not be taken in conjunction with cough suppressants

These Bubble Gum Mucinex Mini-Melts are basically the lovechild of Pop Rocks and Cough Medicine. There’s no liquid to swallow or giant pill to take; simply empty the contents of the package onto your child’s tongue and have them swallow.

Read more

Mucinex offers two great flavors for kids. These packets are easy to travel with, so throw a few in your purse to have handy at the first signs of symptoms.

The expectorant in this granulated medication helps to break up the phlegm in your child’s lungs so they can clear their body of congestion. Gentler, more productive coughs also lead to easier continuous rest, so that the body can get to work healing itself.

The expectorant loosens the phlegm and mucus so kids have a chance to actually cough it up and clear their lungs. Once they’ve started to rid themselves of that nasty congestion, they’ll feel better bit by bit.

The granulated formula is pretty cool. It makes this product travel-friendly (since they come in individualized packs), and easy to swallow for kids.

3. Day and Night Value Pack

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Day and Night Value Pack
Day and Night Value Pack
Day and Night Value Pack
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
91
Safety
93
Effectiveness
92
Age Range
92
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$12.18

Naturally relieves cold and cough symptoms

Nighttime cough syrup helps them get a good night's sleep so they will feel well rested the next day

Daytime cough syrup helps relieve the cold and cough symptoms without making them feel groggy throughout the day

Easy to take cough syrup to ease all symptoms of a cold

All natural, safe, and non-habit forming

Not recommended for children under two

Not recommended with use of Ibuprofen or acetaminophen since it has been found they interact with each other

Hyland’s Cold n Cough will allow your child to enjoy their day and rest peacefully at night.

Read more

With Hyland's 4 Kids old & Cough Day and Night Value Pack, you can kill two birds with one stone. This cold and cough value pack is for both daytime and nighttime to ease your child's cough at night so he or she can sleep well. During the day, your child needs something to help them get rid of the couch, stop their runny nose, and ease their sore throat without making them tired from any other traditional cough medicine.

Made of natural remedies based on the principles of homeopathic medicine, the 4 Kids provide safer and equally effective management of your kid’s nasal congestion, cough, runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat especially during the day while managing your kid’s occasional sleeplessness, cough, sore throat, chest congestion, and sneezing during nighttime. And since we’re talking about homeopathy, you can be sure there are no artificial or synthetic substances included in its formulation.

That’s why some recommend using a double approach to cough and cold management. You need a cough suppressant in the evening so you’ll sleep better and you’ll require a decongestant and expectorant during the day to help relieve the other symptoms. What else is so great about this cough medicine for kids value pack is that it is made with natural remedies so your child doesn't have to take all of those chemicals into their body like from other couch medicines.

When your child coughs at night, he or she will not be able to really sleep well because your kid will be waking up from time to time.

4. Matys Organic Children

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91
Matys Organic Children
Matys Organic Children
Matys Organic Children
Matys Organic Children
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
90
Safety
92
Effectiveness
91
Age Range
91
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$17.50

Drug-free

Composed of 10 immune boosting ingredients

USDA certified organic

Provides results quickly

Some children do not like the taste

Mucus won’t stand a chance against Matys Organic Cough Syrup.

Read more

Packed with ten immune boosting ingredients, Pediatricians love that this cough syrup acts quickly.

Being USDA certified organic, you can feel confident knowing that your child will only be putting natural ingredients into their body. In fact, by using drug-free ingredients you don’t have to worry about your child dealing with any side effects.

All of the ingredients in this cough syrup were chosen for their healing properties. The thyme, ginger, and oregano will loosen and thin mucus.

Children of all ages can use this cough syrup as it is drug-free and composed of whole ingredients. In fact, you can even get creative with how your child takes it. Put it in yogurt, oatmeal, smoothies, etc.

5. Nature's Way Umcka Children's Cherry Syrup

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90
Nature's Way Umcka Children's Cherry Syrup
Nature's Way Umcka Children's Cherry Syrup
Nature's Way Umcka Children's Cherry Syrup
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
90
Safety
91
Effectiveness
90
Age Range
89
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$8.29

Clinically proven cold shortening effects

Useful for several different respiratory viruses

Natural and effective

Cherry flavor

Can’t be used in kids under six years of age

When targeting a cough specifically it’s important to target the source as well. That’s why we’ve included Nature’s Way Umcka Coldcare on our list of the top cough syrups for kids. While this cold syrup is only to be used in children six and up, it provides a powerful aid to help fight off symptoms of the common cold including cough relief.

Read more

Consult with your doctor about any symptoms your child may be having before use.

In addition to that, this cherry flavored syrup also treats congestion, sore throat, and nasal and bronchial irritations. The medicinal plant used, Pelargonium Sidoides, is found naturally in South Africa and is used to reduce the severity of the common cold and shorten the life of it.

Therefore this medicine isn’t only good for the treatment of symptoms but also for the use in cutting them back and reducing the lifespan overall on cold viruses and bacterias that can cause sinus and other respiratory infections.

This cough syrup is for children 6 and up. Finding a cough syrup that works and one that also shortens the life of a cold are a rare find. Umcka makes use of a naturally growing plant to create a formula that’s safe as well as effective.

6. Little Remedies Sore Throat Pops

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.3
Little Remedies Sore Throat Pops
Little Remedies Sore Throat Pops
Little Remedies Sore Throat Pops
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
89
Safety
88
Effectiveness
91
Age Range
89
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$4.56

Straightforward and simple ingredient list

Pack comes with ten lollipops

Safe for kids three years and up

Natural pain relief for sore throats

Won’t interfere with other medicines or medications

Can become a choking hazard if candy separates from the stick, parental supervision advised

What is one thing that all kids like regardless of age? It’s candy! We all know first-hand how unnatural and strong certain cough drops can taste, and inevitably they all have that slight medicinal flavor to them. That flavor profile is even more unpleasant for a kid who’s sick and doesn’t want anything to do with more medicine than absolutely necessary. Little Remedies came along with the brilliant idea of putting all the sore throat relief kids need into one tiny lollipop.

Read more

This sweet lolly is created with real honey to soothe the all-to-familiar ache that accompanies a sinus drip or hoarse throat from a dry cough and contains nothing artificial or fake.

Honey is a natural pain reliever and can be tricky to give to kids since not many of them will drink it in tea or enjoy the texture on its own, but Little Remedies found a way around that! We sincerely thank them for saving parents the sometimes sticky task of cleaning up cough drops that have been promptly spat out by kids everywhere.

There are no fake sweeteners and nothing even the slightest bit artificial in these lollipops, so you can feel good about giving this to your kids when they’re in discomfort. Honey is a super food so it’s healthy as well as sweet

These pops can be helpful to children aged three years and older and simply need to be dissolved naturally in their mouths like they would a real lollipop!

7. Zarbee's Naturals Baby + Mucus

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88
Zarbee's Naturals Baby + Mucus
Zarbee's Naturals Baby + Mucus
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
89
Safety
88
Effectiveness
88
Age Range
87
best offer for today
Amazon Link

All-natural medicinal product

Heartfelt story to back the company that’s relatable to parents everywhere

Hand-picked ingredients for top-notch quality

Nothing artificial

Made specifically for babies

Product has a short shelf life due to all-natural based ingredients

The story behind Zarbee’s Naturals is a personal one and comes from the heart. That’s why their cough syrup is top rated on our list, and the authenticity of their product translates well to the consumer, who are usually concerned parents who want the best for their babies. At Borncute we value children and their health, and that’s one thing that Dr. Zak Zarbock, creator of Zarbee’s, values as well. Zarbee’s is built on the desire that Dr. Zarbock had to give his children all-natural and chemical-free medicines, and his cough syrup is no exception to that.

Read more

Sleep easy knowing that all the ingredients used in this syrup are hand-picked and contain no artificial products or fillers, and do not contain fake sweeteners or harsh chemicals like some other cough syrup brands.

Knowing where ingredients come from is not something you can’t always control as a parent. When it comes to your baby, anything they put in their system will always weigh heavily on your mind and medicine shouldn’t be one of them -- all-natural is the perfect way to go in times of illness and Zarbee’s has delivered that in spades. It’s safe, effective, and worry-free!

Everything you need to administer this cough syrup is right in the box as it comes with an easy to use the syringe to dispense a controlled amount of medicine to your child.

This exceptional cough syrup is safe to use for babies two months and older and is created with an agave-based formula with English Ivy Extract to encourage cleared passageways when babies and children cough.

8. Nature's Way Kids Bioavailable Elderberry

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87
Nature's Way Kids Bioavailable Elderberry
Nature's Way Kids Bioavailable Elderberry
Nature's Way Kids Bioavailable Elderberry
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
87
Safety
88
Effectiveness
86
Age Range
87
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$19.99

Contains real elderberry

Contains flavonoids

Contains plant polyphenols

Helps relieve cough

Helps relieve sore throat

Contains Echinacea

Not recommended for those with an autoimmune disease

Flavonoids are best known for their anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with the immune boosting effects of elderberry extract, what you get is a natural cough syrup for kids that are guaranteed to help dampen throat irritation so your child will no longer be coughing as incessantly as before.

Read more

The reason for Sambucus being so helpful in making your child feel better is because it is all natural since it contains these flavonoids as well as parts from a plant that are helpful in the treatment of the cold and flu, especially for children.

Elderberry is best known for boosting the immune system. You may have heard of Flavonoids before. They help you because of their anti-inflammatory properties. When Elderberry and Flavonoids come together in cough medicine for kids, your child's cough starts to ease up and their sore throat goes away.

Nature’s Way Original Sambucus provides excellent relief from cough especially among children who may have difficulty expectorating the thick mucus secretions. By reducing the inflammatory processes occurring within the surface of the airway passages. Sambucus is able to eliminate the stimulus that can trigger the cough reflex as well as relieve the other symptoms of cold like a stuffy or runny nose.

Since the inflammation has been reduced, the production of mucus tends to also decrease, leading to a decreased incidence of coughing and a reduction in cold symptoms.

Sambucus for kids is made from all-natural elderberry. Elderberry is mainly known to help treat the flu so it is definitely good to help treat your child's cough.

9. Children's Motrin Oral Suspension Dye-Free Berry

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86
Children's Motrin Oral Suspension Dye-Free Berry
Children's Motrin Oral Suspension Dye-Free Berry
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
85
Safety
86
Effectiveness
87
Age Range
86
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$7.68

Relieves cold-like symptoms and fevers

Perfect for teething babies

Flavored

Can last up to eight hours

Recommended for children 2 to 11 years

If your child has any stomach pains it is not recommended for you to give this to them

Confirm with doctor about dosage and use before giving to your child

Motrin will work wonders helping your little one feel better.

Read more

Ask your pediatrician the correct dosage before administering it.

It’s the perfect reliever for your little one who’s starting to get their first tooth. It’s also berry flavored so your little one will love the sweet taste. Don’t worry, the child lock top will ensure that you are the only one who can open and administer this medicine to your child.

Motrin has a long history of being well known for a pain reliever that works. It does contain ibuprofen and will reduce your child’s fever, minor aches due to the common cold, sore throat, headaches, and toothaches for up to eight hours.

Children between the ages of 2 and 11 can use this Motrin to help ease their cold symptoms. The box includes a dosage chart, thus you can easily see how much to give your child based on their weight and age. This medicine comes in bubblegum and berry flavors to help make taking the medicine easier for your child.

10. Naturals Children by Zarbees

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.3
Naturals Children by Zarbees
Naturals Children by Zarbees
Naturals Children by Zarbees
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
85
Safety
86
Effectiveness
85
Age Range
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Has honey included which makes it easier for them to take since it tastes better than most other cough medicine

Includes zinc to promote a boost in their immune system to get to the reason for the cough in the first place

Safe because it is made with honey and no chemicals

Soothes sore throats

Also made with Vitamin C which is another boost to their immune system

Not recommended for children under 12 months

Has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration

If you’re concerned about the synthetic chemicals that may be contained in most cough syrup for kids, then the Zarbee’s Naturals Children’s Syrup should give you the kind of benefit that you need. This should provide the added benefit of a much faster resolution of the actual cause of the cough.

Read more

With Zarbee's Naturals Children's Cough Syrup, you won't have to worry about any of the added chemicals that are in other cough medicines. This is because the name says it all when it says natural. Zarbee's Naturals Children's Cough Syrup is all natural and made with honey to soothe your kid's cough and make them feel a lot better.

Made only of the safest and most natural honey-based formulation complete with the addition of English Ivy extract, Zarbee’s Naturals promises to be a more effective and safer way to help relieve cough by liquefying the mucus secretions in the airway passages and allowing children to cough them out or expectorate these secretions.

This helps clear the airway passages of any irritants which can trigger the cough reflex. Zarbee’s Naturals also contain zinc which is primarily known for strengthening the function of the immune system.

The addition of Vitamin C also helps in the faster and more efficient healing and regeneration of tissues. As we cough, irritants can scrape against the natural surfaces of the airways, leading to cuts and loss of tissue integrity. These tissues must be allowed to heal so they can regenerate. Vitamin C can help in this aspect. Zarbee’s Naturals come in its natural honey flavors without any artificial sweetening or additional flavorings.

Not only is this cough medicine safer for children because it is all natural but it also contains zinc which helps provide a nice boost in their immune system. By providing a boost in their immune system, this can help fix the cause of the ough in the first place.

11. Mommy's Bliss

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
84
Mommy's Bliss - Organic Baby Cough Syrup
Mommy's Bliss - Organic Baby Cough Syrup  ingredients
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
84
Safety
85
Effectiveness
83
Age Range
84
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$19.95

Organic

Sweetened by agave

Daytime and nighttime formulas

Very small bottle

If you need something for day and night that is composed of natural ingredients that you can feel good about giving your baby or a little one, this option from Mommy’s Bliss is a great option. It comes in a night and day formula that you can buy separately or in a combo pack. We love that it has no unnecessary added ingredients like dyes or sugar.

Read more

The most notable feature of this blend is the use of all-natural ingredients that parents can pronounce. The daytime formula uses a blend of Vitamin C and Elderberry that soothes cough and throat while boosting immunity. The nighttime formula uses Chamomile, lemon balm, and passionflower that naturally helps your little one drift off to sleep while soothing their cough.

What we loved about this blend from Mommy’s Bliss is that it is free of harmful ingredients and chemicals. Parents can feel good about giving their little one a formula that is free of alcohol, added sugars, and it is also free of the top 8 allergens.

This formula from Mommy’s Bliss is a great all-natural and organic blend that you can feel good about giving your little one. It comes in the daytime and nighttime blends, and it is free of harsh ingredients that may upset your little one’s stomach.

12. Herb Lore

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.3
Quiet Cough Tincture - Natural Cough Medicine For Kid
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
84
Safety
83
Effectiveness
83
Age Range
83
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$19.99

Easier to swallow

Naturally sweetened

Free of alcohol and chemicals

Expensive

A little goes a long way with this little bottle from Herb Lore. It is composed of all-natural and organic ingredients that you can feel good about giving your little one. This formula helps to soothe irritated throats, and calm dry and unproductive coughs for older kids as well as babies. It may cost more than some of the other options out there on the market, but we feel that it is well worth the slightly higher price point.

Read more

The very first thing that we noticed about this blend is that it has a thinner consistency than many of the syrups out there on the market. Kids and babies are more willing to take this naturally sweetened thinner blend, which makes parents happy. This formula is manufactured in small batches to ensure potency as well as freshness.

The base of this formula is composed of non-alcohol vegetable glycerine that has a thinner consistency and also has a natural sweetness. Mullein Leaf and Coltsfoot help to make coughs a little bit more productive. Marshmallow root is perfect for suppressing dry and unproductive throat irritation.

What we loved most about this natural and organic formula is that it is free of chemicals that you aren’t able to pronounce. It may come in at a price point that is higher than some of the other blends out there, but one little bottle goes quite a long way, and may even last the entirety of cold and flu season for your whole household!

13. Comvita Kids Soothing Pops

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.8
Comvita Kids™ Soothing Pops with Certified UMF™ 10+
about Comvita Kids Soothing Pops
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
83
Safety
82
Effectiveness
84
Age Range
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Easy to take

Uses Manduka honey

Overly sweet

If it is a never-ending struggle to get your kids to take their medicine, you want to check out this option from Comvita Kids. Your little one will have no idea that they are taking something disguised as medicine with these little pops that come in fun and cheery packaging. Plus, it comes in at a super affordable price point that won’t break the bank.

Read more

The active ingredient in these fun pops is Certified UMF 10+ Manuka Honey. Honey has natural properties that help soothe tickly and itchy throats that leads to coughing. The honey in this blend with the help of organic brown rice syrup and organic raw sugar help to make these pops that don’t taste like medicine in the slightest.

What makes these pops stand out from the pack is because they are composed of all-natural and organic ingredients that won’t irritate tiny stomachs. Based on the reviews of previous users, these pops not only taste sweet, but they are super effective at soothing dry coughs at the same time!

If you are in the market for something that is fun and effective, this is a great option. Parents love that is effective and something that their little one will want to take. Plus, it is composed of natural materials that come in at an affordable price point.

14. BEEKEEPER'S NATURALS Propolis Throat Spray

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
BEEKEEPERS NATURALS Kids Propolis Spray
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
84
Safety
82
Effectiveness
81
Age Range
83
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Contains Propolis

Contain soothing honey

Effective spray bottle

Slightly expensive

For some reason, the disdain for taking medicine melts away when it comes to a fun spray bottle. If your little one has a tickle in their throat that is the cause of their coughing, this option from BEEKEEPER'S NATURALS is a great choice. This bottle is formulated for kids, which means that it is slightly sweeter and free of hard chemicals that parents can feel good about.

Read more

What makes this spray ideal is that it is composed of all-natural honey that helps to coat the throat and soothe soreness and ease their coughing. It also contains Propolis, which is a resin mixture that is produced by honeybees. It is helpful because it can help fight viruses to shorten the length of time your little one is under the weather.

The bottle is small and compact, and perfect for small hands. It sprays in a wide mist that coats the inside of the throat. Kids love this formula because it tastes sweet and parents love it because it is free of harmful chemicals and dyes.

If you are on the market for something that has soothing and healing properties in one compact bottle, you can’t go wrong with this option. We love that it contains honey to help soothe the throat and natural sweetness, and it also has Propolis which is known to help fight viruses so your little one isn’t sick as long.

15. GaiaKids Bronchial Wellness Syrup

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80.5
GaiaKids Bronchial Wellness Syrup
GaiaKids Bronchial Wellness Syrup ingredients
Amazon Link
Approved by Pediatricians
81
Safety
80
Effectiveness
80
Age Range
81
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$19.19

Alcohol-free

Formulated by a Pediatric Naturopath

Affordable

Very thick syrup

This blend from GaiaKids is a great option for parents that want something that is super-effective for some pretty nasty viral infections without the use of harsh and alcohol-based ingredients. Parents love that it is composed of safe and natural ingredients to help soothe and combat respiratory viruses, and kids love that it has a light and sweet taste that they are more willing to take without throwing a fit!

Read more

The very first thing that we noticed about this option is that it is composed of all-natural ingredients such as Plantain Leaf, Eucalyptus, and Grindelia which help to calm coughs and soothe viral symptoms. It is important to note that this blend was formulated by a Pediatric Naturopath, so parents can feel good about the effectiveness of this bottle.

What we also like about this bottle is what is left out. This formula is free of artificial colors, dyes, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners. It is sweetened naturally with a blend of honey and lemon which makes it easier for picky kids to take when they aren’t feeling very well.

If you are in the market for something that is formulated to help soothe a pretty nasty viral respiratory infection without the use of hard ingredients, this is a great option. We love that it is free of harsh ingredients such as dyes and alcohol, and it is sweetened naturally with honey and lemon.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Approved by Pediatricians

Before we reveal to you how we chose the cough medicines for kids on this list, we would like to reiterate that even over-the-counter medications can be particularly addicting because of certain components that are included in the formulation of these drugs.

That’s why it is imperative that you follow the recommended dosage instructions. And if you are not sure just how much is right for your child, your doctor can provide you with a more concrete explanation as to what you need to do.

Safety

Most of these cough syrups are perfect for either day or night time. Some of them work better at night because they help suppress your child’s cough or can soothe the pain your child might be feeling from gaining a new tooth.

Some of these also work during the day without any disruptions from a bad cough. The ones that work at night can also help your child sleep better, so that they’ll be able to go along their day without any kind of disruption from not getting enough sleep the night before. We all need our beauty rest and when it comes to any kind of sickness: sleep is a good way of recovering.

Effectiveness

This is the basis of our selection. We have to make sure that these drugs are safe for children and that these do not pose significant threats to their overall health and wellness.

It was essential for us to choose formulations with a relatively safe profile when used among kids. Even if it contains natural ingredients, the safety profile of these ingredients was carefully evaluated. It doesn’t necessarily mean that just because it’s all-natural, it is already safe. Even naturally occurring substances can have an effect on our body.

What more if ingested or consumed by children whose body organs are not as efficient as those found in adults?
We looked into the customer rating of each of these products and decided to include only those with no less than 4.5 stars. It is our understanding that many consumers often base their decisions on existing product ratings. The more popular the product is, the greater is the likelihood that other consumers will buy.

Of course, we did not let the ratings totally dictate the outcome of this search as we also had to consider the responses or experiences of moms and dads everywhere.

Age Range

No parents want to see their child suffer or pump them with unnecessary medication that might affect or cause damage to their health.

Our bodies learn to build natural immunities but not every cold, flu bout or infection can be willed away through sleep and Disney marathons. Even if this is your child's best cure, it’s a miserable process trying to recover.

Of all the contenders of different kinds of sickness that are out there: the cough is among the worst. It can keep your children up at night making it especially hard for them to rest and heal. They spray germs everywhere when they don’t cover their mouths. It runs their throat raw if it gets too intense.

Luckily, there are plenty of kid-friendly cough medicines on the market to help ease symptoms and make the process of getting better a little bit more bearable. We’ve collected the highest-rated products on the market for you and your family. Just add a spoonful of sugar to help the medicine go down (Please don’t though. Sugar is debatably an enemy of the immune system).

Most Important Criteria (According to our experts opinion)
Sort criterias acording to:
Experts Opinion Editors Opinion Users Opinion By Default
Click on a to rate the most important criteria:
#1
Approved by Pediatricians
Rate This Criteria as Most Important
#2
Safety
Rate This Criteria as Most Important
#3
Effectiveness
Rate This Criteria as Most Important
#4
Age Range
Rate This Criteria as Most Important
Parents, Did You Know?

Before you start buying over-the-counter children's cough remedies, it is important to understand what coughing really is. Many individuals have this idea that a cough is a disease or a health condition. Not many realize that coughing is a very normal process of our body to get rid of something that is irritating the airways. Our airways are very sterile environments. If there are irritants in the airways, the cough reflex is activated in an effort to move this irritant out of the airways. It is for this reason that many doctors do not recommend the use of cough suppressants for kids as this inherently suppresses the cough reflex. It is preventing your body from eliminating the irritant that is causing the cough.

Parents, Did You Know?

Unfortunately, many individuals think that the best management for coughing is by taking medicines. In case you’re wondering what your options are, here are some of the most common types of cough medications:

Mucolytics – As the term implies, these effectively break up the bonds of the mucus plugs making them a lot easier for expectoration. Examples are acetylcysteine and bromhexine. Take note, bromhexine should never be given to kids who are younger than 6 years old.

Expectorants – These works almost in the same manner as mucolytics. However, the mechanism of action is on increasing the hydration of the mucus plugs, making these a lot more liquid so they are easily expectorated. Examples are guaifenesin, sodium citrate, and ammonium chloride.

Demulcents – These are airway protectants or surface coaters wherein they provide a protective layer on the pharynx or the throat. This minimizes the irritation of the airways leading to a decrease in coughing. Examples are glycerol and sugar. These can be safely given to kids.

Suppressants – These should never be used on kids because they cause drowsiness, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. Additionally, like we already said, you are essentially preventing your child’s body from getting rid of the irritant in his or her airways. Examples are codeine and dextromethorphan.

Other Factors to Consider

Green Factor

When looking for the best children’s cough medicines, we wanted to find ones that were all-natural. Although some of these on our list are not all-natural, they are safe for children at least 12 and older. However, some on this list can be used for children under the age of 12.

Taste

Taste is a big one that we considered when coming up with our list. We know how hard it can be for parents to try and get their child to take medicine especially if it’s one that doesn’t taste good. Most of these kids' cough medicines have great-tasting flavors including honey, berry, grape and several others.

Although this isn’t the most appealing aspect of cough medicine, it is important because for children because the only way you will get them to take any kind of medicine is if it tastes good. If the flavor is bad, get ready for a battle.

Ease of Use

Another factor we took into consideration was how well the cough medicine worked for your child. We wanted to make sure that it can in fact reduce or get rid of a cough altogether for them and make them feel 100 percent better.

This is why we chose these specific cough medicines for your children since they all work well to help with many of the symptoms of a cold, teething, cough, and even the flu. Your child will be back to their healthy self in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Does Zarbee's Naturals Children's Cough Syrup contain melatonin?

a:

The Zarbee's daytime cough syrup for kids does not contain melatonin as an ingredient but the nighttime version does.

q: What is the youngest age that can take Nature's Way Sambucus for Kids Bioavailable Elderberry?

a:

This cough medicine for children is not recommended for children under 1 year old.

q: Is Hyland's 4 Kids Cold and Cough Day and Night Value Pack a homeopathic substitute for Mucinex for Children?

a:

Although this should not be compared to Mucinex, it does contain all-natural ingredients so it is safe for children and adults as well. However, it is only intended to relieve cold and flu symptoms temporarily until you can get your child to a doctor.

q: Are these different cough medicines for kids good to use at least until I take my child to their doctor for a prescription medication?

a:

Yes, many of these, if not all of them, work for the temporary relief of cold and flu symptoms at least until you take your child to the doctor.

q: Are these cough medicines for children affordable?

a:

Yes, many of them are inexpensive. You can actually find them cheaper online than in your drugstore. However, you will have to wait for it to be shipped to you unless you find a store you can order online and pick up yourself.

Sources

  1. WebMD, Kids' Cold Medicines: Guidelines, Informative Article
  2. Mayo Clinic Staff, Cold medicines for kids: What's the risk?, Informative Article
  3. Emily Kaufman, Is your little one sick? These home remedies will quiet your child's cough in no time, Online Article
  4. Author Unknown, When to Give Kids Medicine for Coughs and Colds, Consumer Health Report