What Are The Repercussions Of Accidental Consumption Of Cheratussin By Infant?

Posted on Tue, 14 Jul 2015

Question: My grandson accidentally got a hold of 10 mil of my Cheratussin and it was all over him and the floor. What would a small dosage do to my one year old grandson?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Watch for any adverse effect

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for the query

Cheratussin contains codeine(an opioid cough suppressant) and guaifenesin (an expectorant).
Guaifenesin is well tolerated in children so I won't be worried for this.
Codeine should not be given in children below 2 years of age.The cheratussin syrup contains 10 mg of codeine in 5 ml,so 10 ml will contain 20 mg.
The therapeutic dose is 0.2-0.5 mg/kg/dose.So for 1 year old child(weight about 10 kg) maximum dose will be 2.5 ml.The dose which can cause side effect is much higher than this.
As you said 10 ml of syrup fell down over him and also on the floor.So the total amount consumed would be much less.
I won't get overly worried for this as the amount consumed if any is very less.
Be watchful for any side effects like drowsiness,excessive sleepiness,irritability,vomiting or any abnormal behavior.
If you notice any of these(although chances are negligible)consult your pediatrician.
I shall be glad to answer if you have any further query.
Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj