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Peds Calc

Parent Guide

Brompheniramine AdministrationSafe & Effective Dosing for Children

Safe-use guidance for brompheniramine combo syrups in pediatrics.

Quality Score: 8/10
3 Clinical Sources
Back to Brompheniramine Overview

Available Forms & Concentrations

oral syrup Form

Clinician-directed use ≥2 years

Variable by brand (commonly 2 mg brompheniramine/30 mg pseudoephedrine/10 mg dextromethorphan per 5 mL)

Advantages

  • Readily available OTC/Rx combo
  • Covers congestion, cough, and histamine pathways

Step-by-Step Preparation

1

Review the label

Confirm concentration and ensure no other meds contain the same ingredients.

2

Shake well

Provides uniform distribution of active ingredients.

3

Measure accurately

Use an oral syringe marked in milliliters; never use household spoons.

Age-Specific Administration Techniques

toddlers

Method & Positioning

Method: Oral syringe into cheek pocket

Positioning: Seated upright on caregiver lap

Success Tips
  • Deliver slowly to reduce gagging
  • Offer a water chaser or popsicle
Common Challenges
  • Taste refusal
  • Spitting out medicine
Success Strategies
  • Chill slightly for taste
  • Use positive reinforcement or sticker charts

school_ages

Method & Positioning

Method: Measured dose in medicine cup or syringe

Positioning: Seated upright

Success Tips
  • Explain ingredients and timing
  • Use reminder alarms to preserve 4-hour spacing
Common Challenges
  • Forgetting doses
  • Duplicate OTC use
Success Strategies
  • Maintain a dosing log on the fridge
  • Collect other OTC cold meds to avoid overlap

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Child becomes very sleepy

Consider calling your pediatrician if this issue persists

Solutions to Try

  • Hold daytime doses and contact clinician
  • Ensure no other sedatives are being used

Prevention Tips

  • Start with lowest effective dose
  • Confine to short-term nighttime use when possible

Child is agitated or has rapid heartbeat

Consider calling your pediatrician if this issue persists

Solutions to Try

  • Stop medication immediately
  • Seek urgent evaluation for possible pseudoephedrine reaction

Prevention Tips

  • Avoid dosing near bedtime in sensitive children
  • Screen for cardiac conditions

Safety & Storage Guidelines

Storage Requirements

Temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F)

Stability: Use until labeled expiration date unless color/odor changes

Location Tips

  • Store locked and out of child reach
  • Keep in original bottle for ingredient list

Clinical Insights

Document all concurrent OTC cold medicines to prevent duplicate decongestant dosing

Evidence: Expert opinionSource:

Families should limit use to nighttime relief and rely on supportive care for daytime symptoms

Evidence: Expert opinionSource:

You're Doing Great

You are providing the best care for your child. Follow your healthcare provider's guidance.

Clinical References

Use Caution When Giving Cough and Cold Products to KidsU.S. Food & Drug Administration (2024)Consumer Guidance
Cough and Cold Medicines (OTC)Nationwide Children’s Hospital (2023)Patient Education