Teething Tablets Linked to 10 Deaths in USA

The US Food and Drug Administration has urged parents to stop using homeopathic teething tablets and gels due to fears they are linked to children deaths in the US.

The FDA said in a statement last week:

“We are also aware of reports of 10 deaths during that time period that references homeopathic teething products, though the relationship of these deaths to the homeopathic teething pills has not been determined and is currently under review.”

The tablets are also available in some Australian shops.

It is alleged that the pills contain traces of a highly poisonous plant called belladonna or “Deadly Nightshade”.

The FDA also said that at least 400 adverse effects were reported due to the use of these teething pills which soothe teething babies. These allegedly occurred over the past six years.

The FDA is now investigating Hyland’s baby teething tablets. However, the company told CNN: “Hyland’s has not been made aware of any data that supports the claims in the warning against our teething tablets and gels. Our understanding is that the Food and Drug Administration’s investigation of these products is still ongoing. The fact is that we have not been made aware of any medical or statistical evidence to support a causal link between homeopathic teething tablets and adverse outcomes at this point. We continue to request any available information and statistics from the FDA.”

Though Hyland’s has stopped distribution of the tablets in the US, there has been no recall on the products, which include Hyland’s Baby Teething Tablets, Hyland’s Baby Teething Tablets Nighttime and Hyland’s Baby Teething Gel.

“We are confident that any available Hyland’s teething products, including those you already have, are safe for use.

“Of course, parents who may have concerns should consult with their physicians before using any medicines, read labels carefully and follow all instructions.

“We look forward to the future of homeopathic medicines as we work in partnership with the FDA,” the company said.

In 2010, there was a recall and safety alert about the tablets containing belladonna, but Hyland’s had apparently reformulated the product following this recall. In the same year, the Australian government released a statement to warn parents against the choking risks posed by amber teething necklaces.

The ACCC tested a number of these products and found that they could break into small parts and present a choking hazard to children under three years of age. Amber teething necklaces should only ever be used under strict supervision, if at all.

FDA paediatrician Dr. Ethan Hausman, does not recommend any sort of drug, herbal or homeopathic medication or therapy for teething in children. The FDA recommend massage using clean fingers or a clean, cool washcloth or teething ring as the best way to alleviate teething pain.

Among the symptoms of teething are fever, lethargy, vomiting, sleepiness, tremors, shortness of breath, irritability and agitation. Parents should consult a doctor if their child experiences any of these symptoms.

Source: Kidspot.com.au