Officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently warned consumers that some homeopathic gels and tablets designed for teething could be risky for children and infants.
Instead of using these homeopathic treatments, the FDA recommends disposing of the gels and tablets. These items are usually found in Hyland’s, CVS and other drug stores. They are also available online and in retail stores.
If children experience difficulty breathing, seizures, excessive sleepiness, lethargy, skin flushing, muscle weakness, agitation, difficulty urinating or constipation after using these gels or tablets, caregivers should seek medical attention immediately.
The FDA is currently evaluating adverse events concerning seizures among children and infants using homeopathic teething gels and tablets. In 2010, there was a safety alert about these homeopathic teething items.
Although the issue is still under investigation, the FDA hopes to communicate with the public soon about what it learns in their studies and tests.
“Teething can be managed without prescription or over-the-counter remedies,” Dr. Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said. “We recommend parents and caregivers not give homeopathic teething tablets and gels to children and seek advice from their health care professional for safe alternatives.”
