Sahu R. and Thawani V published an article describing the use of cough syrups in children. They discussed the kinds of syrups available, their use, WHO recommendations for its use in their article.

They described the use of-

• antitussive agents for non-productive cough, 
• expectorants for productive cough; 
• antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia; 
• bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory active pharmacological ingredients (API) for asthma. 

For children, they quoted-

• treatment with supportive care, oxygen and/or bronchodilator in viral Infection 
• discouraged the use of API for cough suppression
• Opium derivatives like codeine should not be used in children below 12 years of age.
• Ant-cough and cold medicines shouldnt be used in children below 2 years of age(FDA 2008)
• Not to use cough suppressant for Upper Respiratory Tract Infection.

They also discussed the following recommendations for children-

• use of nonpharmacological care like bulb syringe to remove secretions in infants and toddlers,
• use of saline nasal drops for stuffy nose,
• use of humidifier or steam inhalation with plain water,
• use of homemade cough syrup with- licorice, honey, sunthi and tulsi for children above 1 year of age.

Source: VIMS Health Science Journal, 2020;7(2):56-59. https://doi.org/10.46858/dvvpf.j.