Which medication should not be used in children under 10 years due to risks such as seizures?

The correct answer is that benzontate should not be used in children under 10 years due to the risk of serious side effects, including seizures. Benzonatate works by numbing the throat and lungs, which helps to suppress the cough reflex. However, one of the concerning side effects in pediatric populations is the potential for severe neurological reactions, including seizures, particularly when used in children who may not fully understand how to take the medication safely.

Benzonatate's risk profile necessitates a cautious approach in younger children, and it is generally recommended that it not be prescribed for those under the age of 10 to prevent potential harm associated with its use.

In contrast, dextromethorphan is used for cough suppression and is generally considered safer for children over the age of 4. Codeine, while an opioid with its own risks, has been restricted due to concerns about respiratory depression in children, particularly those under 12, but not specifically under 10, making it still relatively more accepted than benzontate in this age group. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that is considered safe for use in children over the age of 2, focusing on relieving congestion rather than suppressing coughs.