Some children may experience nightmares, restlessness, or irritability. Decongestants are used to treat nasal congestion and other symptoms associated with colds and allergies. They work by narrowing blood vessels, leading to the clearing of nasal congestion. The commonly used forms are liquid and tablet. Nose sprays or drops may be used for acute situations but for no more than two to three days in a row or as prescribed by a physician.
Decongestants can cause nervousness, sleeplessness or elevation in blood pressure.
Bronchodilators are used to relieve coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and difficulty in breathing. They work by opening up the bronchial tubes so that more air can flow through. Bronchodilators include beta-agonists, theophylline and anticholinergics. They come in inhaled, tablet, capsule, liquid, or injectable forms. Bronchodilators may cause nausea, vomiting, headache, nervousness, restlessness, and insomnia, especially in elderly patients and children, who are more sensitive to the effects of medication.