The American Academy of Pediatrics strengthened its warnings about prescribing codeine for children because of reports of deaths and risks for dangerous side effects including breathing problems.<br />The academy’s advice, published in a report Monday in its medical journal, Pediatrics, mirrors warnings from the FDA about using codeine for kids’ coughs or pain.<br />Studies suggest it is still commonly prescribed by doctors and dentists despite the risks and lack of evidence that it works to relieve coughs.<br />Doctors and parents should choose another remedy when possible, including acetaminophen and ibuprofen for pain and simple remedies such as ice or popsicles after tonsillectomies, said Dr. Charles Cote, a Boston anesthesiologist and co-author of the report.<br />Maybe a little pain is better than the alternative.
