But Ganley said opening the door to requiring tests on all existing medications to prove they are safe for children would be problematic, as the vast majority of these medicines would have to be tested in children.
Over-the-counter products can also present a special risk for kids and babies, since many nonprescription drugs have also never been tested specifically in children.
"With all the products on the market, it can be very confusing exactly what you are giving your child," said Texas pediatrician Dr. Ari Brown, co-author of "Baby 411: Clear Answers and Smart Advice for Your Baby's First Year" and "Toddler 411: Clear Answers and Smart Advice for Your Toddler."
"Parents will also guesstimate what dose to give their child by using a product that is intended for a child over 6 years of age to an 18-month-old, for example."
Brown says "combination" products -- those that contain multiple medications in a single dose -- can further increase the chances that a child is receiving an inappropriate dose of a medicine.
"[Parents] may give two products that both contain the same ingredients," he said.
As with prescription drugs, hospitals treating young patients lie at the center of concerns over the use of nonprescription medicines in children. Many of these medications are given to children in these settings, and the doctors and nurses at hospitals are often charged with the duty of instructing parents on how to properly administer these drugs to their children.
"We have been trying to educate our residents and nurses about the use of all cough and cold medicines," said Dr. Neil Herendeen, associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Rochester Medical Center.
"We are worried both about the potential harm for young infants and toddlers, as well as the waste of money on ineffective medications."
