Diseases of the respiratory system are most common in childhood. All parents face them, so the issue of choosing cough medications is very important for every mother. If a sick child coughs and the sputum is difficult to clear, he is prescribed medications with an expectorant effect.
Such drugs help make the mucus in the respiratory tract thinner and stimulate its secretion, resulting in a more productive cough.
Most often these medicines are presented as syrups. Some are made from herbal ingredients, while others are made from synthetic compounds.
And when choosing a syrup for a small child, for example, at the age of 3 or 5 years, most mothers lean toward herbal remedies, one of which is licorice root syrup.
In order for such a drug to help cope with a cough, you need to know how to use it for children and how much syrup to give the child depending on his age.
100 grams of syrup contains 4 grams of its main active ingredient, represented by a thick extract of licorice roots.
This plant, also called licorice or yellow root, has long been used in the treatment of coughs. It is found in the European part of the country, in Siberia, and also in the Caucasus.
An extract is obtained from the roots of licorice, and then various medicines are made.
It is important to note that every 100 ml of licorice root syrup includes 10 ml of 96% ethyl alcohol. This information should be taken into account when choosing a remedy for treating cough in infants. The third component of the drug is sugar syrup, which contains 86 grams in a 100-gram bottle. This composition gives the syrup a brown color, a sweet taste and a peculiar smell.
To ensure that licorice extract does not lose its medicinal properties and is stored for a long time, it is produced in dark glass bottles. Some manufacturers add preservatives, water, purified glycerin, citric acid and other substances to the drug, but the most common drugs contain only licorice, sugar and alcohol.
The main effect of the syrup, which contains licorice root, is to stimulate the motor and secretory functions of the respiratory system. The drug is prescribed for a wet cough, as an expectorant, if there is a viscous, thick and difficult to separate secretion in the child’s bronchi.
The properties of the medicine are due to the presence in licorice roots of such active substances as glycyrrhizic acid, essential oils, glycyrrhizin, polysaccharides and flavone glycosides. It is these compounds that activate the function of epithelial cells of the respiratory tract and relieve spasm of the smooth muscles of the bronchi, due to which the mucus thins and its release during coughing is facilitated.
In addition to the expectorant effect, licorice syrup also has other effects:
- General strengthening of the child's body.
- Anti-inflammatory effect.
- Antimicrobial as well as antiviral effect.
- Stimulation of the child's body's defenses.
- Acceleration of healing of mucous membranes.
- Reducing blood cholesterol levels.
- Diuretic and laxative effect.
- Antitumor effect.
The frequent use of licorice syrup in the treatment of cough in children is due to a fairly large number of positive characteristics of such a medicine:
- Licorice root syrup is an affordable, inexpensive drug found in many pharmacies.
- The medicine is based on plant materials (natural root extract), so it can be given in childhood.
- Thanks to the sweet taste, most sick children do not refuse this type of medicine.
- This syrup is a ready-made remedy that can be immediately given to a coughing child without the need to mix, boil or infuse anything.
- The thick syrup quickly envelops the mucous membrane and begins to act almost immediately after administration.
- Licorice syrup is quite convenient to dose. Many manufacturers include a measuring spoon or measuring cup in the packaging of such medicine.
Given the expectorant effect, licorice root syrup is most often prescribed:
- For acute bronchitis.
- To relieve cough in acute laryngitis.
- For pneumonia.
- With tracheitis.
- For chronic bronchitis.
- For bronchiectasis.
The drug can also be prescribed during surgery on the respiratory tract, both before and after the intervention. It is also recommended for gastritis or peptic ulcers, but only during the period of recovery and remission.
Before you figure out how to give licorice syrup to children, you should take into account the presence of some contraindications to such a remedy.
This drug should not be given to children with:
- Hypersensitivity to any of the components of the drug.
- Gastritis in the acute stage.
- Bronchial asthma.
- Heart rhythm disturbances.
- Peptic ulcer of the digestive system.
- Hypertension.
- Impaired kidney or liver function.
For diabetes mellitus, the medicine must be prescribed very carefully, because it contains sugar.
For more information about the benefits of licorice root, see the program “Live Healthy.”
The syrup, which is made from licorice root extract, is approved for use at any age, but most pediatricians do not advise giving this product to children in the first year of life due to the presence of ethyl alcohol in its composition. The use of licorice syrup is recommended for children who are already 1 year old.
In this case, the use of this medicine in children 1-12 years old must be agreed with the attending physician, who will clarify the dosage and determine whether there are any contraindications. The doctor will also take into account that this medicine is incompatible with some other medications. For these reasons, giving licorice syrup to children under 12 years of age is not recommended.
The medicine is taken orally after meals, but before giving it to your child to drink, you should find out how to dilute this medicine. To dilute the syrup, children need to take boiled water at room temperature. In addition, the bottle should be shaken before measuring the required dose of syrup. If the drug is measured in drops, they are dripped into a spoon with water.
- Children aged 1-2 years are given 1 or 2 drops of syrup per dose.
- For children over 2 years old, the required amount of medicine is diluted in a tablespoon or a quarter glass of water.
- At the age of 2 to 6 years, the dose of the drug can vary from 2 to 10 drops, for example, a 4-year-old child can be given 5 drops of syrup per dose.
- For children over 7 years of age and up to 12 years of age, it is recommended to dilute 50 drops of the medicine in half a glass of water.
Max. A single dosage of licorice syrup depending on age is as follows:
The frequency of use of the syrup is three times a day, and the duration of treatment is from 7 to 10 days. To make the expectorant effect of such a medicine more pronounced, the child should be given a lot of warm drinks, for example, weak tea or unsweetened compote.
Some children who take licorice root syrup experience nausea and may have diarrhea. The drug can also cause an allergic reaction, which is manifested by itching, swelling and redness of the skin, and rash. If such signs of intolerance occur, the medicine is discontinued, replacing it with a drug with a similar effect.
Side effects may also appear if the recommended treatment period is not followed (taken for more than 10 days). If you use licorice products for a long time, it can lead to an imbalance of fluids and electrolytes in the body, which will cause swelling and increase blood pressure.
The same side effect is noted when combining licorice root syrup with diuretics, cardiac glycosides, laxatives and some other groups of drugs. It is very dangerous to take such syrup together with antitussive medications that can suppress the cough reflex.
Before taking syrup with licorice root extract, you should also read reviews from parents who have already given this medicine to their coughing children. In most cases, licorice root syrup receives positive feedback, noting that such a remedy is really effective in helping with coughs in children.
Among the advantages of the drug are its availability, pleasant sweet taste, and natural composition. Many mothers consider the disadvantages of licorice syrup to be the presence of alcohol and sugar in the medicine, as well as the presence of contraindications.
As for the cost of licorice syrup, domestic preparations and syrups produced in neighboring countries are inexpensive. For packaging of medicine from manufacturers such as Samaramedprom, Viola, Omsk Pharmaceutical Factory, Flora Caucasus or Borshchagovsky HF Plant, you will pay from 20 to 50 rubles.
Licorice root syrup is not the only option for a medicine containing an extract of this plant. Licorice is available in pharmacies in the form of tablets, and is also added to various herbal infusions and complex cough syrups.
You can also buy licorice candies, which in addition to the plant extract contain sugar, gelatin, molasses, starch, flavorings and other substances. Children like these sweets and can be used to treat coughs in childhood.
For more information about the treatment of cough in children, see Dr. Komarovsky’s program.
Source: https://o-krohe.ru/kashel/sirop-solodka/
Licorice cough syrup. Instructions for use from wet and dry, dosage, doctor's recommendations
Liquorice syrup has been known since Antiquity; in those days this medicine was called “Yellow Root Syrup.” This plant was used in Eastern medicine, and the first mentions of licorice can be found in the writings of Ancient Greece.
The yellow root was used for many diseases: lichen, fungi, inflammation, but most often for wet or dry cough. Until now, licorice syrup is a highly effective drug in the fight against diseases of the respiratory system.
The benefits of licorice in treating cough
Licorice root contains more than 12 substances that help the human immune system function. Licorice syrup is a natural product. Licorice contains a substance that helps fight various viruses. It's called glycyrrhizic acid.
Licorice syrup contains phytoestogen (female sex hormone). For women, licorice is a faithful friend if there are problems with the menstrual cycle, infertility and other pathologies of the reproductive system.
Licorice has a number of properties:
- expectorant;
- immunomodulatory;
- antispasmodic;
- antiviral.
The plant is also useful because of its properties and composition:
- Its decoction has a diuretic and laxative effect.
- Carbohydrates and glucose in licorice normalize water-salt metabolism in the body.
- The plant neutralizes harmful substances in the body, toxins, and prevents poisoning.
- The essential oils in the syrup soothe a red throat from coughing and relieve irritation.
- Bioflavonoids reduce pain.
- Adapogen helps the hormonal system and prevents it from being overloaded.
- Coumarin. Regulates the functioning of blood vessels. Acts as a sedative.
- Reduces cholesterol levels.
- Stimulates the functioning of internal organs.
- Increases immunity.
- Normalizes the functioning of the endocrine system.
- Helps overcome depression and improves mood.
Composition of the medicine
To prepare the syrup, licorice root (a plant from the genus Licorice) is used. The root contains glycyrrhizic acid and saponins (a substance with anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory effects).
Syrup based on licorice extract contains ascorbic acid and 27 flavonoids (substances that affect the functioning of enzymes in the body).
Full composition of Licorice syrup:
- Steroids (substances of animal or plant origin that have great biological activity).
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin).
- Calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, zinc (minerals).
- Flavonoid (a compound that regulates the functioning of enzymes in the human body).
- Polysaccharides (polysaccharides perform functions in the body: energy, protective and storage).
- Starch.
Licorice cough syrup contains 4 g of licorice extract. The remaining 96 g is ethyl sugar solution.
Pharmacological properties
Licorice root has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects:
- Has an expectorant effect on coughs. Glycyrrhizin in Licorice root is used to treat bronchial asthma. This substance facilitates expectoration. Glycyrrhizin activates immune system cells in the lungs. With weak muscles in the walls of the bronchi, licorice improves the passage of air.
- Glycyrrhizin can suppress the proliferation of viruses throughout the body. Licorice syrups are often prescribed for lichen, viral infections of the genitals or skin. Licorice cough syrup has a number of positive effects on the body.
- Licorice cough syrup has an antispasmodic effect (relieves pain that occurs due to muscle spasms).
Indications
Licorice cough syrup is used for various inflammatory diseases associated with the respiratory system. Typically, such diseases have a common symptom - cough.
Licorice syrup is used to treat:
- Asthma (inflammation of the bronchi due to allergies).
- Cough (dry and wet).
- Pneumonia (infection).
- Bronchitis (inflammation of the surface of the bronchi due to a virus, bacteria or bad habit).
- Bronchiectasis (rotting in the bronchi).
- Disturbances with lymphatic drainage.
- Diseases of the genitourinary system.
- Helps in the treatment of rheumatism.
- Helps in the fight against depression, anxiety, obsessive disorders and fatigue.
- Licorice tea helps aspiring singers improve their voice.
Contraindications
Licorice root is not suitable for everyone, so you should visit a doctor before using it.
It is strictly forbidden to use by people with the following diseases:
- Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach walls).
- Allergy to Licorice or other components in the syrup.
- Ulcer.
- Pregnancy.
- Glaucoma (eye disease).
- Kidney diseases.
- Diabetes.
- Reduced blood clotting.
Licorice syrup can cause uterine bleeding, so the drug is prohibited for pregnant and nursing mothers.
Instructions for use of cough syrup for adults
If you use the syrup correctly, the risk of side effects is reduced, and the effectiveness of treatment increases:
- Licorice cough syrup is taken 3 times a day after breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- 1 teaspoon of syrup is mixed in 100 ml of water or any other liquid. The dosage is prescribed by the doctor, but the syrup packaging always contains instructions.
- You should drink plenty of water during use.
Instructions for use of cough syrup for children
The syrup can be used by children at least 1 year old. Licorice infusion contains a small amount of alcohol, which does not affect an adult, but can affect a child.
The drug copes gently with pulmonary infections and diseases:
- The syrup should be given to the child 3 times a day: after breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- The remedy is diluted in warm water.
- The child should drink plenty of fluids.
Syrup dosage for children by age:
- Children under 2 years of age are prescribed 2 drops per teaspoon of water.
- From 2 to 7 years: 3 to 10 drops in a teaspoon.
- From 7 to 13 years: 50 drops in 100 ml of water.
Before you start using licorice syrup, you must visit a doctor - this is a mandatory step in the treatment of cough in children.
Duration of treatment of wet and dry cough with licorice syrup
The course of treatment for children should not take more than 10 days. This can have a detrimental effect on the child’s fragile body.
For adults, the course is 1-2 weeks, but not less than 11 days.
A wet cough goes away faster than a dry cough, but the difference in time is insignificant.
Side effects
The syrup has a negative effect on the heart, so you should take medications with licorice according to the instructions (dosage). Dry cough may cause temporary irritation and itching when taken.
The harm of Licorice is considerable:
- Severe itching and rash.
- High blood pressure (hypertension).
- Disruption of the menstrual cycle in women.
- Muscular paralysis.
- Heart rhythm failure.
- Potassium deficiency (hypokalemia).
- Licorice changes the water-salt balance in the body, which leads to edema. In extreme cases, toxicosis is possible.
- Licorice cough syrup can change hormonal levels, increasing the level of estrogen (female hormone).
Overdose
Licorice cough syrup is safe if you follow the instructions. In case of non-compliance with use or exceeding the daily dosage, increased heart rate, nausea, vomiting or dizziness may occur. The main symptoms of a licorice overdose are exacerbation of side effects. Overdose does not happen often, but do not forget about it.
Interaction
Licorice cough syrup can be used with all medications except:
- Diuretic (diuretic) drugs . When taking syrup and a diuretic, a large amount of potassium will be washed away from the body.
- Laxatives . Malt has a laxative effect, so if you use a laxative and syrup at the same time, you can get an enhanced effect. Intestinal disorders cannot be ruled out.
- Medicines for the heart . Just as with diuretics, due to the interaction of licorice root and heart medications, the amount of potassium excreted from the human body increases.
Analogs
It is not always possible to be treated with licorice syrup due to many contraindications, but this remedy has equally effective analogues.
They are as follows:
- ACC.
- Coldrex Broncho.
- Linkas.
- Brohosan.
- Bioline Cold.
- Mustard plaster.
- Bisepol.
- Klacid.
- Pulmex.
- Fluifort.
- Erespal.
- Zitrolide.
- Codipront.
The above drugs have the same pharmaceutical effect as licorice root syrup.
But before use, you should carefully read the composition of the product and, if possible, discuss this with your doctor.
Coldrex Broncho
It is an expectorant. Quickly removes mucus from the lungs, reducing its viscosity. It has a gentle effect: it coats the throat with a glucose solution to prevent irritation.
Indications:
- Flu.
- Tracheitis.
- Bronchitis.
Dosage for adults (from 12 years): drink 10 ml of the product. Repeat the procedure after 3 hours. Dosage for children (from 2 to 12 years): drink 5 ml of medicine. Repeat after 2-3 hours.
ACC
The medicine has an expectorant effect. The product increases cell protection from re-inflammation. ACC relieves pain and reduces the frequency of exacerbations of diseases in people with chronic bronchitis. Take orally after meals. Dissolve 1 tablet in a glass of water. Drink the solution immediately.
Indications:
- Diseases of the respiratory system.
- Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses).
- Otitis (ear inflammation).
Dosage:
- People over 14 years old: take 200 mg, 2-3 times a day.
- From 7 to 14 years: 1 tablet, 3 times a day.
- From 2 to 7 years: 1 tablet, 2 times a day.
Side effect:
- Allergy.
- Dyspnea.
- Tachycardia.
- Abdominal pain.
- Stomatitis.
- Noise in ears.
Contraindications:
- Ulcer.
- Pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding period.
- Lactose intolerance.
- Allergy to the composition of the medicine.
Prices for syrup in pharmacies in Moscow, St. Petersburg, regions
The price of the medicine depends on the demand of the product, delivery costs and pharmacy markups. The price of the same drug varies not only in different regions, but also in areas of the same city.
The advantage of Licorice syrup is not only in the treatment of wet and dry coughs, but also in an affordable price for everyone.
The cost of medicine in different regions of the country:
Region | average price |
Moscow | 38 rub. |
Saint Petersburg | 38 rub. |
Altai region | 35 rub. |
Republic of Tatarstan | 19 rub. |
The Republic of Khakassia | 19 rub. |
Krasnoyarsk region | 25 rub. |
Krasnodar region | 20 rub. |
Primorsky Krai | 20 rub. |
Kamchatka Krai | 19 rub. |
Khabarovsk region | 18 rub. |
Tyva Republic | 21 rub. |
Irkutsk region | 19 rub. |
The price rises closer to the western part of Russia. Moscow and St. Petersburg have the highest prices for licorice syrup. But regions further from the capital do not always have low prices. A pharmacy can increase the cost of goods, so all numbers are relative, but do not exceed 100 rubles.
Doctors' recommendations for taking syrup
If a person tries licorice syrup for the first time, they should be observed by their doctor at this time, because unexpected allergic reactions may occur.
If there are no allergies or significant side effects, licorice root is suitable for the person and he can undergo a course of treatment:
- In no case should we forget about safety measures and the correct dosage of the medicine. Doctors advise using licorice root for people suffering from constipation or lung diseases. In rare cases, licorice is used to treat laryngitis and tracheitis. The medicine contains a lot of sugar, so people with diabetes should use it with caution.
- The medicine may be addictive. Another reason why you should not take licorice syrup for a long time is the high percentage of alcohol in the composition.
- It is forbidden to use by pregnant or nursing mothers. The doctor prescribes licorice syrup only if other medications do not help the woman.
Syrup of natural origin with licorice extract will quickly clear the airways of mucus, relieving a person from coughing. In addition, licorice has a disinfectant and immunomodulatory effect. This remedy works better than other drugs for wet and dry coughs, which is why the choice of many people is drugs that contain licorice.
Article design: Oleg Lozinsky
Video about licorice root syrup
Instructions for using licorice root for cough:
Source: https://healthperfect.ru/sirop-solodki-ot-kashlya.html
Licorice root syrup for coughs for children
One of the drugs for relieving cough in a child is licorice root syrup. Thanks to its herbal base, the drug is safe and effective in childhood and can be used for a wide range of diseases.
Licorice cough syrup is a preparation based on herbal ingredients. The medicine is made from licorice (Liquorice), widespread in Siberia and the Caucasus. Other names for licorice are equally well known: licorice, yellow root.
Features of the composition
The composition of licorice root, like any plant object, is very complex, but its main active components are glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhizic acid, which can fight various types of cough and have an anti-inflammatory effect, as well as liquiritoside, which acts on smooth muscles as an antispasmodic.
The syrup is a brown liquid with a thick consistency and a specific odor. Per 100 g of the drug there are 4 g of root extract. 86 ml is allocated for sugar syrup, and the remaining amount (10 g) is for ethyl alcohol with a concentration of 96%.
Important! The presence of ethyl alcohol and sucrose makes it undesirable to take the drug until the child is two years old.
Some manufacturers may add glycerin to the syrup. The drug is produced by Samaramedprom OJSC and EKOlab CJSC in glass bottles made of protective dark glass, containing 60 g, 100 g and 125 g of syrup.
Effect of licorice syrup against cough
According to the instructions for use, syrup based on licorice root is indicated for dry and wet coughs with difficult to separate, viscous, thick sputum.
The expectorant effect is due to increased secretory function of the mucous tissues of the upper respiratory tract and increased activity of epithelial cilia. The muscles of the bronchi relax, the mucus thins and moves away faster.
The intervals between coughing attacks after each dose increase, and the intensity of the symptom decreases
The action of licorice syrup is complex:
- quickly rids the airways of viscous mucus;
- reduces the intensity of a dry, hacking cough;
- calms the inflammatory process;
- regenerates tissue faster;
- help the immune system fight viruses and bacteria;
- has an analgesic effect.
Indications for use of the drug
Licorice syrup is used in the following cases:
- chronic or acute bronchitis;
- tracheitis;
- bronchiectasis (local dilatation of the bronchi with suppuration);
- pneumonia;
- laryngitis.
These diseases are treated with a complex of drugs, one of which may be licorice root syrup. Since the main effect of the drug is expectorant (aimed at thinning and removing sputum), it cannot be used in conjunction with antitussive drugs. cough suppressants. You should not take syrup at the same time as diuretics (diuretics).
Dosage for children and general rules of administration
The general rules for admission include the following.
- The syrup is taken after meals.
- It is recommended to dilute the product with boiled water before use.
- The frequency of administration is three times a day.
- In order for the therapeutic effect to occur faster, you should give the child more fluid.
- The duration of treatment should be no more than 10 days and no less than 7.
Before taking the drug, a child under two years old must consult a specialist, since only he can assess the appropriateness of its use and dosage, based on the child’s age and condition. The dosage of licorice syrup depending on the age of the child according to the instructions for use is indicated in the table.
Attention! If after taking the medicine the child complains of nausea or heartburn, the amount of water should be increased or the dose of the drug should be reduced.
Side effects
In general, licorice root syrup is well tolerated by children. Only occasionally are undesirable reactions of the body observed in the form of allergies, which manifest themselves as a rash on the body. Diarrhea is also included in the list of side effects of the drug. Rarely observed.
Important! If parents are afraid of unwanted reactions in their child, they can conduct an allergy test at home. To do this, you need to take a drop of the product and apply it to the area at the base of the hand on the inside or on the bend of the elbow. If after half an hour no reaction in the form of redness, hyperemia, or peeling is observed, it means that the child is not allergic to the medicine.
With long-term use of the drug, there may be an increase in blood pressure, hypokalemia (decreased potassium in the blood serum), an imbalance in the water-salt balance and, as a result, peripheral edema. In case of overdose, nausea and vomiting are observed.
Pulmonologist about cough in children video
Who should not use licorice root?
Despite the multiple medicinal properties, there are still contraindications to this drug:
- diabetes;
- bronchial asthma;
- allergy to medication components;
- ulcer of the stomach, intestines, duodenum in an acute form.
Positive and negative properties of the drug
- The main advantage of licorice root medicine is its composition. The drug is created on the basis of plant components. There are no synthetic impurities in its composition. That is why it is prescribed to children.
- In addition, the price of syrup differs significantly from its analogues. The cost per bottle varies between 20-80 rubles.
- It is worth mentioning the possibility of taking licorice in infancy (but only after consulting a doctor!).
- Among the positive qualities of the medicine, one can note an expanded range of actions. In addition to qualities that allow you to fight cough, the drug also has immunostimulating, antibacterial, antiviral, and antitumor effects. It is also possible to take licorice-based syrup in the initial stages of colds, when the intensity of the symptom is insignificant.
- Among the disadvantages, one can note the presence of ethyl alcohol and sucrose in the composition.
Source: https://topotushky.ru/zdorove-malysha/preparaty/sirop-kornya-solodki-detyam.html
Licorice root syrup instructions for use for children with recommendations
Licorice root for coughs for children is a proven, effective and inexpensive expectorant. How to give it to a child, does the medicine have side effects and when is it contraindicated?
Indications for use
- Licorice root has been used to treat coughs, inflammations, and lichens for thousands of years.
- Today, the main indications for the use of licorice are diseases of the upper respiratory tract and lungs.
- This natural herbal medicine has an expectorant, antiviral, antispasmodic effect, accelerates the healing of mucous membranes, and strengthens the immune system. As prescribed by a pediatrician, licorice root can be given to children for the treatment of:
- bronchitis;
- tracheitis;
- laryngitis;
- pneumonia;
- inflammation of the urinary tract;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract - ulcers and gastritis (during the recovery period).
The drug is used as part of complex therapy - neither pneumonia nor bronchitis can be cured with licorice alone.
Release form and composition
It is very convenient that cough licorice for children is available in the form of syrup. Packaging - dark glass or polyethylene bottles of 50 and 100 grams in cardboard boxes with a measuring spoon or cup.
One hundred grams of syrup contains 4 grams of extract of licorice roots and Ural licorice; the remaining 96 are a solution of ethyl alcohol with sugar.
The extract contains bioflavonoids, glycyrrhizic acid, systosterol, glycyrrhizin, they strengthen the body and support the immune system. The drug contains ascorbic acid, essential oils, etc.
- The finished syrup is a thick red-brown liquid.
- It is viscous, so it coats the throat and airways well.
- The syrup is sweet, and children drink it with pleasure.
- A closed bottle of syrup can be stored for two years, an opened bottle for up to three months at a temperature not exceeding +25 ° C, out of the reach of children.
When asked whether licorice can be given to young children, all doctors unanimously answer: only after a year. The drug contains ethyl alcohol and is contraindicated for infants.
Pharmacies sell licorice root from different manufacturers. Some have glycerin and preservatives added to the drug. Read the ingredients carefully: for children, a syrup containing only licorice, alcohol and sugar is preferable.
How does licorice syrup work?
- Licorice is an effective expectorant.
- Syrup is prescribed for wet coughs, when thick pus accumulates in the bronchi and is difficult to clear.
- Substances in licorice cause epithelial cells to activate, relieve bronchospasm, mucus becomes liquid and coughs up well.
- Licorice root has a general strengthening, anti-inflammatory effect, helps heal microcracks in the mucous membranes, lowers cholesterol, and has a laxative and diuretic effect.
Side effects and contraindications
Despite the fact that licorice cough syrup for children is an effective, affordable remedy and is sold without a prescription, it should not be taken uncontrollably.
The attitude of doctors towards licorice-based drugs is cautious and ambiguous. Reason - possible side effects:
- allergic reactions to the components of the drug in the form of a rash, diathesis on the face, arms, legs;
- nausea;
- the drug contains a lot of sugar. For those who have a tendency to increase blood glucose levels, its loading dose in syrup is dangerous;
- increased blood pressure;
- increased heart rate, heart murmurs;
- swelling.
Licorice syrup, when taken for a long time, affects hormonal levels - it increases the amount of estrogen. This leads to disorders in both women and men.
Absolute contraindications to taking medications with licorice:
- hypersensitivity to the components of the drug;
- bronchial asthma;
- hypertension;
- heart rhythm disturbances;
- exacerbation of gastritis or peptic ulcer;
- pregnancy;
- glaucoma;
- children's age (up to 1 year);
- liver dysfunction;
- renal failure.
Directions for use for children
In each specific case, the doctor decides whether children can take licorice root or not. He also calculates the dosage and duration of treatment - no more than 10 days.
The syrup is diluted in water and given to children three times a day after meals. For the best coughing effect, the child needs a lot of warm drinks.
Standard dosage by age:
Child's age Licorice syrup dosageFrom 1 year to 2 years | 2 drops of syrup diluted in 1/2 teaspoon of water
3 times a day |
From 2 to 6 years | 3 to 10 drops in 1/2 teaspoon of water
3 times a day |
From 7 to 12 years | Up to 50 drops in 1/2 teaspoon of water
3 times a day |
From 12 years old | 1/2 teaspoon syrup in a spoonful of water
3 times a day |
The exact dose is calculated individually. The maximum one-time amount for children from 2 to 12 years old is half a teaspoon, after 12 years old - a teaspoon.
Overdose and long-term use of drugs with licorice lead to problems in the cardiovascular system, kidneys, dangerous imbalance of electrolyte balance in the blood serum - a decrease in the amount of potassium ions and an excess amount of sodium.
Combination with other medications
Preparations based on licorice root are allowed to be used together with other medications, with the exception of:
- diuretics, since licorice itself has this effect; simultaneous use leads to leaching of potassium from the body;
- laxatives - licorice will enhance their effect;
- cardiac glycosides - drugs for normalizing myocardial functions, etc.
Price of drugs with licorice
Licorice root is included in many cough medications - Doctor MOM, Codelac, Bronchofit, Elekasol. Doctor MOM in different pharmacy chains costs from 170 to 300 rubles.
Licorice root extract or syrup as an independent preparation is much cheaper - from 20 to 50 rubles. Licorice syrup is not sold for more than 100 rubles even in the center of Moscow.
This medicine is produced throughout the country: Ivanovo, Kirov, Samaramedprom, Rostov, Yaroslavl, Omsk pharmaceutical factories, the Viola company, JSC EKOlab, Flora Caucasus, Borshchagovsky Chemical Physics Plant, Tatkhimfarm, Vifitech, etc.
Reviews from parents
Most of those who have used licorice syrup to treat dry and wet cough evaluate it positively, and when asked whether children can have licorice syrup, they confidently answer “yes.”
Main advantages:
- effectiveness: helps quickly and gently;
- has been used for a long time, well studied and tested;
- natural herbal preparation;
- Allowed for children from one year of age;
- inexpensive, available in all pharmacies;
- sweet syrup - a convenient form for babies;
- The medicine is ready-made, easy to use, convenient to dose - the package contains a measuring spoon or cup.
The disadvantages of mom and dad most often include the presence of sugar and alcohol in the composition; other contraindications are less often paid attention to.
Let's sum it up
Licorice extract is a natural herbal medicine that is an effective cough suppressant.
The drug is available without a prescription. In addition to syrup, licorice candies, lollipops, etc. are freely available in pharmacies (and even in regular stores).
Affordability and over-the-counter sales are dangerous because licorice is used uncontrolled.
Be careful: just because it is a natural, herbal product does not mean it is harmless. Yes, licorice quickly and effectively helps to cope with a lingering cough, but it can cause a lot of serious side problems.
Conclusion: Before giving your child licorice syrup, consult your doctor.
Take care of yourself and your children!
Category: From 1 to 7 From 7 to 18
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Source: https://littleone.com/publication/0-6719-sirop-kornya-solodki-instrukciya-po-primeneniyu-detyam
Licorice syrup ????: instructions for use for children with cough up to one year and older
A child’s cough is a common symptom of colds and infectious diseases. Gradually, from a dry form it turns into a wet one, becomes less frequent and the baby recovers.
It happens that the period of coughing is prolonged, which worries parents. Licorice root syrup, an affordable and effective expectorant, helps overcome it.
When and for what symptoms its use is justified is described in the annotation for the drug.
One of the cough remedies is licorice root syrup.
How does licorice root help?
Licorice root (licorice) from the legume family has many beneficial properties and is used for medicinal purposes in the form of various dosage forms - tinctures, concentrated syrups, thick decoctions.
It contains the natural antioxidant ascorbic acid, a number of essential oils, flavonoids, and other useful components. Initially, the laxative, diuretic, wound-healing, and immunostimulating effects of the root were noted.
Later, its effectiveness in coughs was proven.
The effect of the root has proven itself in cases of tendency to constipation, colitis, and skin diseases. In these situations, therapists recommend drinking pharmaceutical herbal teas based on it, preparing tinctures and decoctions.
Composition and features of the drug
Ready-made industrial licorice root syrup is a thick, chocolate-brown liquid. It has a sweet taste, and it usually doesn't take long to ask little ones to drink it at the right time.
The viscous structure ensures a quick and gentle action of the medicine, which envelops and soothes the respiratory tract. In 100 ml. 4 ml of medicinal liquid was measured.
licorice root extract (active ingredient) and additional components – 10 ml of 96% ethyl alcohol, 86 ml. sugar syrup.
The syrup contains alcohol, so the medicine is not prescribed to small children
The therapeutic effect of the drug is due to the high content of natural bioflavonoids (liquiritin and liquiritoside), which have a general strengthening effect on the body.
It also contains glycyrrhizic acid, systosterol, glycyrrhizin - ingredients for enhancing immunity. Syrup (additional component) consists of sugar, starch and pectin.
Since the drug is based on alcohol, doctors prescribe it with caution before the age of two.
For colds, medicine based on licorice root has a complex effect:
- expectorant;
- anti-inflammatory;
- restorative;
- regenerating;
- antiviral.
For long-term storage, the drug is released in dark glass bottles.
A number of manufacturers can add water, specially prepared glycerin, and natural preservatives to the medicine, but children should choose syrups with a minimum amount of components (only licorice, sugar, alcohol).
The drug has an affordable price: a bottle produced by Samaramedprom, EKOlab, and other domestic pharmaceutical plants costs about 50 rubles.
Effect of cough syrup
Many biologically active substances that licorice root syrup contains have a beneficial effect on the state of the respiratory system during ARVI and colds.
Flavonoids and glycyrrhizin stimulate the activity of the epithelium lining the bronchi.
Under their influence, the villi actively produce bronchial secretions, bind pathogen cells and push liquefied sputum to exit through the bronchial tree.
The therapeutic effect of the syrup is as follows:
- liquefaction and removal of sputum;
- respiratory tract disinfection;
- regeneration of microcracks that form after coughing;
- relief of coughing attacks of any kind (frequent dry, wet);
- gradual cessation of cough and inflammation in the bronchi.
READ ALSO: dry cough medicine in bags for children: instructions The syrup helps well to liquefy and remove phlegm from the child’s lungs
Indications for use
Main indications for the use of licorice root syrup:
For complicated coughs, the drug is prescribed in combination with other medications. However, when the baby takes tablets that are incompatible with licorice root (containing codeine), the syrup is put aside.
It is drunk for 10 days.
If in the first two days the child does not experience relief or swelling is observed, you should contact the clinic for a re-examination so as not to miss complications of the disease.
Contraindications
Before giving the drug to an infant or older child, you should study the contraindications and side effects. Its use is unacceptable in the following situations:
- sensitivity to the components of the drug;
- exacerbation of peptic ulcer;
- arrhythmia;
- bronchial asthma;
- disruption of the kidneys and liver.
Licorice root has contraindications, so its use is possible after consulting a doctor.
The side effect of the drug is expressed in an allergic reaction, an undesirable increase in blood pressure. In the first case, a rash, diathesis, and other skin reaction on the arms, legs, and face are possible.
In the second case, the pulse quickens, and when listening, the pediatrician observes a heart murmur. The child complains of feeling hot and gets tired quickly. Stomach discomfort and nausea may occur.
For diabetes, doctors usually select medications that have similar effects, but without sugar.
General rules for taking syrup for children under 12 years of age
READ ALSO: cough syrup for children under one year old
The medicine is given to the child after meals, in an individually prescribed dosage. The doctor selects it based on the weight, age, and well-being of the little patient. When calculating, the specialist relies on the dose for an adult weighing 65 kg.
For 1 kg. babies are supposed to weigh about 0.3 ml. syrup (single dose 20 mg divided by 65). Knowing the weight of the baby, you can determine the prescribed volume of medication. For example, a baby weighing 9 kg. you need to give about 2.7 ml of syrup (0.5 tsp) at a time, which is important to dilute in a dessert spoon of water before serving.
READ ALSO: Stoptussin syrup: instructions for use for children When treating a child’s cough, it is important to remember the need to drink frequently and plentifully for better sputum discharge
The basic rules for taking syrup are:
- When the infant's correct weight is unknown or controversial, dosage can be adjusted based on age. Up to six months it is 1/10 of that of an adult, in a year it is 1/6.
- Take licorice no more than 3 times a day. The course lasts no more than one and a half weeks.
- Before serving to children, the drug is carefully diluted in boiled water or weak tea. To enhance the expectorant effect during its use, frequent drinking is recommended - water, fruit drinks, compotes, tea.
- The medicine is prescribed to infants with caution, in extremely rare cases. For infants, pediatricians select expectorants without ethanol.
READ ALSO: how to take Pertussin for children of different ages?
Dosages for children of different ages
When measuring the correct amount of syrup (in drops, teaspoons), take into account that the maximum single dose for a two-year-old child is two drops (see.
See also: Prospan syrup for children with instructions). Sometimes experts use a simpler dosage regimen, prescribing to take as many drops at a time as the child’s current age.
Dosages according to instructions:
READ ALSO: Stodal syrup: instructions for use for children
- up to 2 years – 1-2 drops per 1 tsp. water 3 times/day;
- from 2 to 6 years – 2-10 drops per 1 tsp. water 3 times/day;
- from 6 to 12 years – 50 drops per 0.5 tbsp. water 3 times/day;
- from 12 years – 0.5 tsp. for 1 tsp. water 3 r/day.
READ ALSO: How to treat a cough in a 2-year-old child?
Alternatives for cough treatment
For children under one year old, it is necessary to use other drugs, for example, Gedelix
Parent reviews of licorice syrup are mostly positive. However, not only this dosage form is effective for coughing.
Pharmacies offer licorice in the form of tablets, herbal teas, mixtures based on it, and complex antitussive syrups. In addition, you can use special candies that, in addition to licorice extract, contain sugar and molasses.
They make breathing easier when you have a runny nose, and gradually reduce the number of coughing attacks in childhood.
Instead of licorice syrup for coughs, one-year-old children and infants are prescribed:
With long-term use of drugs based on licorice root, an intensive removal of potassium from the body occurs. At this time, children's diet should include dried apricots, peeled peanuts, walnuts, bananas and other foods containing large amounts of this microelement.
Source: https://VseProRebenka.ru/zdorove/preparaty/sirop-solodki-detyam.html