Coughing in a child induced by upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) poses a significant challenge, for both the child and its parents. However, available data establishing the efficacy for over-the counter (OTC) medications is scarce. 

The current study was conducted to contrast the effects of two kinds of Iranian honey with diphenhydramine (DPH) on nocturnal pediatric coughs and the sleep quality of children and their parents. The study included 87 patients and all the parents were asked to complete a standard previously validated questionnaire. The children were randomized to one of three treatment groups, Group 1 (Honey type 1), Group 2 (Honey type 2), and Group 3 (DPH). Each group were administered double doses of the respective treatments on two successive nights. Moreover, a second survey was then conducted via a telephone interview in which the parents were asked the similar questions. 

The outcome showed that the mean scores for all aspects of coughs were remarkably reduced in each group before and after the treatment. All three treatments ameliorated the cough and sleep scores. DPH was superior to honey type 1 in improving the frequency of cough, while it was more efficacious than honey type 2 in ameliorating the sleep quality of the child. 

Thus, based on observations, it can be suggested that DPH can improve frequency of nocturnal cough and the sleep quality of children with URTIs.

Source: Ayazi P, Mahyar A, Yousef-Zanjani M, Allami A, Esmailzadehha N, Beyhaghi T. Comparison of the Effect of Two Kinds of Iranian Honey and Diphenhydramine on Nocturnal Cough and the Sleep Quality in Coughing Children and Their Parents. PLoS One. 2017 Jan 19;12(1):e0170277.