Back in December 2008, Health Canada decided that over-the-counter (non-prescription) cough and cold medications should not be given to children under 6 years of age.

These over-the-counter cough and cold medications contain active ingredients such as antihistamines (used to treat runny nose and sneezing); cough suppressants, expectorants (used to loosen mucus) and decongestants (used to treat nasal congestion).