Hill’s Balsam Children’s Dry Tickly Cough (Glycerol)

Hill’s Balsam Children’s Dry Tickly Cough is indicated for the temporary relief of a dry, tickling cough in pediatric patients.

• Provides a soothing, hygroscopic layer on the mucous membranes, helping to alleviate throat dryness that triggers coughing.
• Reduces the frequency of cough episodes by maintaining moisture in the upper airway.
• Recommended for children who meet the age criteria printed on the label, typically above two years of age.
• Can be combined with non‑pharmacologic measures such as a humidifier or adequate fluid intake for added comfort.
• Not suitable for coughs that produce phlegm or for treating bacterial or viral infections.

• Glycerol acts as a humectant and demulcent. When administered orally, it attracts and retains water in the mucosal lining of the throat, creating a protective film that softens irritated tissues. This moist environment diminishes the sensory trigger for the cough reflex, thereby reducing the urge to cough without exerting pharmacologic activity on the central nervous system or airway smooth muscle.

Like many oral demulcents, glycerol‑based preparations may be associated with occasional adverse reactions.

Common

• Mild throat irritation or a transient burning sensation.
• Nausea or mild stomach discomfort.
• Increased salivation leading to a temporary feeling of fullness.
• Temporary alteration of taste.

Serious

• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or lips.
• Severe gastrointestinal upset or vomiting that persists.
• Signs of anaphylaxis, including difficulty breathing or throat tightness.
• Rare occurrence of bronchospasm.

When using Hill’s Balsam Children’s Dry Tickly Cough, caregivers should follow these safety considerations.

• Keep the product out of reach of children younger than the age specified on the label.
• Do not use for infants under two years unless directed by a healthcare professional.
• Avoid administration if the child has a known hypersensitivity to glycerol or any other ingredient.
• Do not give to children with a productive (wet) cough or diagnosed respiratory infection without medical advice.
• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Discontinue use and seek medical attention if an allergic reaction occurs.
• Consult a pediatrician before combining with other cough or cold medicines.

Glycerol has a low potential for drug interactions, but certain combinations should be considered.

Avoid

• Concurrent use with other oral demulcents or syrup‑based medications that contain high sugar content, which may increase the risk of dental caries.
• Mixing with alcohol‑containing preparations in children, as ethanol can irritate the mucosa.

Use with caution

• Combining with other over‑the‑counter cough syrups; monitor for cumulative sweetening agents.
• Use alongside medications that may cause gastrointestinal irritation, as glycerol can exacerbate discomfort.
• Patients receiving diuretics should be observed for changes in fluid balance, although interactions are rare.