comparison of zataria multiflora extract syrup and diphenhydramine in the treatment of common cold-induced cough in children: a double-blind, randomized, clinical trial

conclusions herbal compounds, such as zm mixtures, are acceptably efficacious in cough relief with fewer adverse effects than chemical compounds in the treatment of cold-related cough, especially in infants and younger children. patients and methods a total of 52 pediatric patients (2 - 12 years old) with common colds were included in the study. the patients were randomly divided into two treatment groups: one group received diphenhydramine compound and the other received zm syrup, each for five days. the severity of cold-related symptoms and the efficacy of each drug were determined seven days later by asking the parents to complete a prepared questionnaire. sedation, sleepiness, a four-point scale of cough status, and a two-point scale of consumption convenience were also evaluated in these questionnaires. background management of cold-associated cough is a challenging aspect of supportive care for the common cold for pediatricians and parents worldwide. herbal compounds have traditionally been used for the treatment of cold-related cough. among these compounds, zataria multiflora (zm) has been found to be effective for cough relief. results our results showed that sedation and sleepiness occurred in 30.8% and 19.2% of the patients in the diphenhydramine and zm groups, respectively (p = 0.54). also, 65.4% and 84.6% of the patients in the diphenhydramine and zm groups, respectively, reported convenient usage (p = 0.10). the patients who received zm syrup had significantly better outcomes (p = 0.036). objectives the aim of this study is to compare a thyme mixture with diphenhydramine in the treatment of cold-related cough in a double-blind, randomized, clinical trial.