WASHINGTON: Children under 2 should not be given over-the-counter cough and cold medicines because they are too risky, US health authorities warned on Thursday.

“Over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold products should not be used to treat infants and children less than 2 years of age because serious and potentially life-threatening side effects can occur from such use,” the Food and Drug Administration said in a statement.

The FDA cited rare reports of deaths, convulsions and rapid heart rates, adding that the medicines “have not been shown to be safe or effective in children under 2.”

The agency has not yet decided if the widely sold medicines made by companies such as Wyeth and Johnson & Johnson are appropriate for children in other age groups. Officials still are evaluating data on use in kids ages 2 to 11. Makers say the products are safe and effective when given as directed to children age 2 and older. In October 2007, major manufacturers voluntarily pulled 14 cough and cold products for children up to age 2.—Reuters