Can babies take Zarbee’s cough syrup?

Quick Answer

Zarbee’s cough syrup is generally considered safe for babies over 6 months old, but it’s important to check with your pediatrician first. The active ingredients in Zarbee’s like honey and agave can help soothe coughs, but shouldn’t be given to babies under 1 year due to the risk of infant botulism. Make sure to carefully follow dosing instructions based on your baby’s age and weight. Never give cough syrup to babies under 4 months old.

What is Zarbee’s cough syrup?

Zarbee’s cough syrup is an over-the-counter cough medicine designed for children. It contains naturally derived ingredients like honey, agave nectar, and vitamin C. The syrup helps coat and soothe sore throats while suppressing coughs.

Unlike many medications, Zarbee’s cough syrup does not contain any chemical drugs. Instead, it relies on the soothing properties of honey and agave to relieve cough symptoms.

Here are the main ingredients in Zarbee’s cough syrup:

  • Honey – Has antimicrobial and cough suppressing effects
  • Agave nectar – A natural sweetener that can coat and soothe sore throats
  • Vitamin C – Boosts the immune system and has antioxidant properties
  • Zinc – Shortens duration of colds and lessens cold symptoms
  • Natural flavors – Provide palatable taste for children

The combination of honey, agave, vitamin C, and zinc work together to ease coughs and sore throats in children. The syrup comes in a few different flavors, including grape, cherry, and mixed berry.

Is Zarbee’s cough syrup safe for babies?

Zarbee’s cough syrup is generally safe for babies over 6 months old, but it’s important to check with your pediatrician before giving it to infants. Here are some key considerations regarding safety:

  • Not for babies under 6 months – Honey is not recommended for babies under 6 months due to the risk of infant botulism. Botulism spores can contaminate honey and cause illness in young infants with underdeveloped digestive systems.
  • Follow dosing instructions – Carefully follow the dosing guidelines based on your baby’s exact age and weight. Never give more than the recommended dose.
  • Avoid other cough meds – Do not combine Zarbee’s with any other cough and cold medicines without medical approval.
  • Watch for side effects – Stop use if your baby experiences any adverse reactions like rashes, vomiting, constipation, or excitability.
  • Ask your pediatrician – Check with your baby’s doctor before administering any cough syrup, even over-the-counter formulations.

As long as you follow the instructions carefully and get medical approval, Zarbee’s can be a safe way to manage coughs in babies over 6 months. Never give cough syrup of any kind to babies under 4 months old.

What age can babies start taking Zarbee’s cough syrup?

The manufacturer recommends introducing Zarbee’s cough syrup at the following ages:

  • 6-12 months – Consult doctor before use. Follow exact weight-based dosing.
  • 1-5 years – Standard dosing guidelines apply.
  • Over 5 years – Follow dosing for ages 6-11.

So the minimum age for Zarbee’s is 6 months, but you should always get approval from your pediatrician before administering. The doctor will consider your baby’s medical history and make sure there are no contraindications.

Here are some key age considerations:

  • Under 4 months – Do not give any cough syrup or OTC cold meds.
  • 4-6 months – Consult doctor. May recommend saline drops or nose suctioning instead.
  • 6-12 months – Doctor approval essential. Follow exact dosing for weight.
  • Over 1 year – Follow standard dosing guidelines.

Carefully check the dosing chart on the Zarbee’s package that provides the appropriate dose amount based on your baby’s age and size. Always measure doses carefully using an infant medicine syringe or dropper.

What’s the proper Zarbee’s cough syrup dosage for babies?

The Zarbee’s cough syrup label provides detailed dosing guidelines based on your baby’s age and weight. Carefully follow these instructions and never give more than the recommended amount.

Here are the standard dosage guidelines by age:

6-12 months

  • Under 24 lbs – 1/2 tsp every 4 hours
  • 24-35 lbs – 3/4 tsp every 4 hours
  • Over 35 lbs – 1 tsp every 4 hours

1-5 years

  • Under 24 lbs – 1/2 tsp every 4 hours
  • 24-35 lbs – 3/4 tsp every 4 hours
  • 36-47 lbs – 1 tsp every 4 hours
  • 48-59 lbs – 1 1/2 tsp every 4 hours
  • 60-71 lbs – 2 tsp every 4 hours
  • 72-95 lbs – 2 1/2 tsp every 4 hours

Always use an accurate infant medicine syringe or dropper so you dose the proper amount. Never exceed the recommended dosage for your baby’s age and size. Stop use and consult your doctor if symptoms worsen or persist more than 3 days.

Can I give Zarbee’s cough syrup to my 2 month old?

No, Zarbee’s cough syrup should never be given to babies under 4 months old. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against giving any over-the-counter cough and cold medicines to young infants.

At 2 months, your baby’s airways are tiny and their bodies cannot metabolize medications well. Even small doses could lead to dangerous side effects.

Instead of cough syrup, your doctor may recommend the following treatments for a 2 month old’s cough:

  • Saline nose drops
  • Nose suctioning with a bulb syringe
  • Using a cool mist humidifier
  • Elevating baby’s head during sleep
  • Providing small, frequent feedings

Your doctor may also prescribe medications like steroids to reduce airway inflammation. But always get medical guidance before giving any medications, natural supplements, or home remedies to a 2 month old.

Watch your baby closely and call your pediatrician right away if their cough worsens, causes breathing problems, or is accompanied by fever. Respiratory illness can quickly become dangerous in young infants.

Is Zarbee’s cough syrup more effective than other brands?

There are not many studies directly comparing the effectiveness of different brands of cough syrup. However, some research suggests Zarbee’s key ingredients like honey and agave may provide more cough relief than other formulations.

One study in the journal Pediatrics compared honey to dextromethorphan, a common over-the-counter cough suppressant. Children aged 2-5 who received honey cough syrup had better cough relief than those given DM-based syrup.

Other studies show honey outperforms diphenhydramine (the drug in Benadryl) for improving nighttime coughs and sleep quality. Honey is also proven to have antimicrobial properties that help fight infections.

Experts speculate that the viscosity of honey and agave nectar allow them to coat and soothe irritated throats longer. Honey also has antioxidants and may stimulate nerve endings in the throat to suppress cough reflexes.

More research is needed comparing various natural cough syrup ingredients. But initial evidence suggests honey/agave-based formulas like Zarbee’s may provide superior cough relief over medicated alternatives. Always consult your pediatrician about the most effective options for your baby.

Should I give Zarbee’s cough syrup at night?

You can safely give Zarbee’s cough syrup to your baby at night as long as you follow the dosing guidelines. In fact, many parents find it helpful to give cough medicine right before bed.

Reasons you may want to administer Zarbee’s cough syrup at night:

  • Suppresses coughing at night so baby sleeps better
  • Maximizes time between doses (e.g. dinner and bedtime)
  • Thick syrup coats throat overnight for prolonged relief
  • Honey soothing properties can aid sleep

Just make sure to space out dosing appropriately – wait at least 4 hours between administering Zarbee’s. Give your baby the last dose right before bed so the effects last throughout the night.

Never exceed dosage recommendations or combine with any other OTC cold medicines without your doctor’s approval. Pay close attention to potential side effects like excitability that could disrupt sleep.

Talk to your pediatrician about the best times to give cough syrup for maximum overnight relief. Proper nighttime dosing can help your baby – and the whole family – rest easier.

What if Zarbee’s cough syrup doesn’t seem to work?

If your baby still has persistent coughing even after giving Zarbee’s cough syrup, there are a few steps you can take:

– Make sure you’re giving the proper dose based on age/weight. Try the maximum recommended dosage.

– Be patient – natural formulas can take up to 30 minutes to start working.

– Try giving it with a few sips of warm water to help thin out mucus.

– Use diligently every 4 hours for several days to get the full effect.

– Make sure your baby is getting enough fluids. Dehydration can worsen coughs.

– Use a humidifier and nasal saline drops to help loosen congestion.

– Ask your doctor if prescription medications may be more effective.

– Consider switching to a different brand of natural cough syrup.

– See your pediatrician if the cough lasts more than 3 days or comes with fever, wheezing, breathing issues, or thick/discolored mucus.

While Zarbee’s works for many babies, it may not fully relieve every cough. Stay in close contact with your doctor if symptoms persist or get worse while using cough syrup. Never try to increase the dosage beyond label instructions without medical guidance.

Are there any negative side effects of Zarbee’s cough syrup?

When used appropriately, Zarbee’s cough syrup is unlikely to cause adverse side effects. However, it can cause minor issues in some babies like:

  • Drowsiness – The syrup’s soothing properties may make some babies sleepy.
  • Mild excitability – Honey can occasionally cause increased energy and wakefulness.
  • Mild constipation – Thick syrup can exacerbate constipation issues.
  • Stomach upset – Honey is difficult for some babies to digest.
  • Rash – Minor allergic reactions are possible with any medication.
  • Interaction with other meds – Always check for drug interactions.

More serious side effects are very rare but could include seizure, severe allergic reaction, or dangerously rapid heart rate. Discontinue use and seek medical help immediately if your baby experiences hives, swelling, trouble breathing, or other concerning reactions.

To reduce risks, carefully follow dosing guidelines and watch for any worrisome symptoms. Consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns about side effects. Stop using and call your doctor if adverse reactions develop.

Is there anyone who should not take Zarbee’s cough syrup?

The following groups should avoid using Zarbee’s cough syrup:

  • Babies under 6 months – Honey may cause infant botulism.
  • Babies under 4 months – Should not have any OTC cough meds.
  • Children over 12 years – Follow adult cough syrup dosing.
  • Allergy to ingredients like honey or agave nectar
  • Taking prescription cough/cold medications
  • History of reactions to cough suppressants
  • Underlying health conditions – Consult doctor first.

Carefully review the full list of inactive ingredients to watch for potential allergies or sensitivities. Always speak to your pediatrician before giving any cough medication, especially in young babies and children with medical conditions.

When in doubt, avoid using Zarbee’s cough syrup until you can discuss it with your doctor.

Conclusion

Zarbee’s cough syrup can be a safe and effective option for treating coughs in babies over 6 months old. The natural ingredients like honey and agave can help soothe sore throats and suppress coughing.

Always check with your pediatrician before giving any cough medicine to infants. Follow the exact dosing guidelines based on weight and age. Use properly and watch closely for any potential side effects.

While Zarbee’s is designed for children, it should still be used carefully under medical supervision. Proper dosing and monitoring are essential when giving cough syrup to babies. With your doctor’s guidance, Zarbee’s can provide safe, natural cough relief.

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