Key Takeaway
Cochrane review found honey probably reduces cough symptoms in children more effectively than placebo and diphenhydramine, and may be similar to dextromethorphan.
Summary
Definitive Cochrane review on honey for pediatric cough.
Methods
- Cochrane systematic review
- RCTs of honey vs controls
- Children with acute cough
- Cough frequency and severity outcomes
Key Results
- Probably reduces cough frequency
- Likely reduces cough severity
- May be better than placebo
- Similar to common cough medicines
- Safe for children over 1 year
Limitations
- Moderate quality evidence
- Subjective outcomes
- Various honey types used
- Not for infants under 12 months