In the United States, you typically must be to purchase over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicines containing certain active ingredients. These age restrictions are primarily designed to prevent the misuse and abuse of these products by minors. Restricted Ingredients
The age requirement usually applies to medicines containing these specific ingredients: age to buy cough medicine
: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) limits the use of prescription cough medicines containing these opioids to adults 18 and older due to risks of serious breathing problems and addiction. Retailer and State Requirements In the United States, you typically must be
: In some states, minors may purchase these medicines if they have a valid prescription or, in specific cases, if they are emancipated or active-duty military. Cold medicines for kids: What's the risk? - Mayo Clinic In the United States