Simple linctus for cough

This leaflet is about the use of simple linctus to soothe mild cough.

This leaflet has been written specifically for parents and carers about the use of this medicine in children. The information may differ from that provided by the manufacturer. Please read this leaflet carefully. Keep it somewhere safe so that you can read it again.

Name of drug

Simple linctus, simple linctus paediatric

Why is it important for my child to take this medicine?

Simple linctus is a cough preparation that gently soothes and relieves your child’s cough.

What is simple linctus available as?

• Liquid medicine (oral suspension): Simple linctus and simple linctus paediatric.

These are both available as sugar-free versions.
If you have any concerns or questions, speak with your child’s doctor or pharmacist.

When should I give simple linctus?

Simple linctus should only be used when your child has a cough. It may be given up to three to four times daily. Ideally, wait at least 3 hours between doses of simple linctus.

How much should I give?

Your doctor will work out the amount of simple linctus (the dose) that is right for your child. The dose will be shown on the medicine label if you have been given a prescription.

• If you have bought your medicine over the counter, then please follow the instructions on the bottle carefully. If you are not sure how much to give, then contact your pharmacist or doctor.

It is important that you follow your doctor’s instructions about how much to give.

How should I give it?

Liquid medicine (oral suspension): Measure out the right amount using an oral syringe or medicine spoon. You can get these from your pharmacist. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not give the right amount.

When should the medicine start working?

Simple linctus starts to work straight away.

What if my child is sick (vomits)?

• If your child is sick less than 30 minutes after having a dose of simple linctus, give them the same dose again.
• If your child is sick more than 30 minutes after having a dose of simple linctus, you do not need to give them another dose. Wait until the next normal dose.

If your child is sick again, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist or hospital. They will decide what to do based on your child’s condition and the specific medicine involved.

What if I forget to give it?

Simple linctus should only be given when it is needed.Ideally, wait at least 3 hours between doses.

What if I give too much?

You are unlikely to do harm if you give an extra dose of simple linctus by mistake.

Are there any possible side-effects?

We use medicines to make our children better, but sometimes they have other effects that we don’t want (side-effects). Your child is unlikely to get side-effects with simple linctus. If you notice anything unusual and are concerned, contact your doctor.

You can report any suspected side-effects to a UK safety scheme at http://www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard

More information on side-effects can be found in the following leaflet: www.medicinesforchildren.org.uk/side-effectschildrens-medicines

Can other medicines be given at the same time as simple linctus?

• You can give your child medicines that contain paracetamol or ibuprofen, unless your doctor has told you not to.
• Check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving any other medicines to your child. This includes herbal or complementary medicines.

Is there anything else I need to know about this medicine?

If your child has diabetes, they should take sugar-free simple linctus.

• Ideally, sugar-free linctus should be used for all children. If your child takes too much simple linctus that is not sugar-free over a long period of time, it may damage their teeth.
• Children with fructose intolerance should not take this medicine.

General advice about medicines

• Try to give medicines at about the same times each day, to help you remember.
• If you are not sure a medicine is working, contact your doctor but continue to give the medicine as usual in the meantime. Do not give extra doses, as you may do harm.
• Only give this medicine to your child. Never give it to anyone else, even if their condition seems to be the same, as this could do harm.
• Make sure that the medicine you have at home has not reached the ‘best before’ or ‘use by’ date on the packaging. Give old medicines to your pharmacist to dispose of.

Where I should keep this medicine?

• Keep the medicine in a cupboard, away from heat and direct sunlight. It does not need to be kept in the fridge.
• Make sure that children cannot see or reach the medicine.
• Keep the medicine in the container it came in.

Who to contact for more information

Your child’s doctor, pharmacist or nurse will be able to give you more information about simple linctus and about other medicines used to treat non-specific cough.