Any parent knows that teething time can be tough for little ones and their exhausted caretakers. That’s why products developed to relieve the pain and discomfort of cutting teeth are big sellers. But several options offered by one brand may have proven deadly.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a warning to consumers who purchased Hyland’s Baby Teething Tablets, Hyland’s Baby Teething Tablets Nighttime and Hyland’s Baby Teething Gel. An investigation shows that these products may be linked to the deaths of 10 children who used homeopathic teething tablets, plus 400 additional adverse events occurring over the past six years. Adverse events reported include fever, lethargy, vomiting, sleepiness, tremors, shortness of breath, irritability and agitation.
Though a definitive link has not yet been confirmed, the products are under review and Hyland officials have pulled them from the US market – albeit reluctantly.
“This decision was made in light of the recent warning issued by the Food & Drug Administration against the use of homeopathic teething tablets and gels. This warning has created confusion among parents and limited access to the medicines,” Hyland said in a letter. “Putting you in a position of having to choose who to trust in the face of contradictory information is burdensome and undermines the FDA. We are confident that any available Hyland’s teething products, including those you already have, are safe for use.”
Despite the company’s protestations, FDA officials are urging caretakers to stop using the products immediately and to take their children to a doctor immediately if they experience any of the reported symptoms.
Rather than teething tablets or gels, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that parents massage their child’s gums to relieve pain; use a solid teething ring or clean, wet washcloth that’s been chilled in the freezer; or give the child frozen bananas, berries or bagels to enjoy under supervision.
If your believe that your child has suffered adverse issues caused by use of the Hyland products, keep them intact, get your child medical treatment and call 800-251-1111 to speak with a product liability attorney with Jacksonville’s Harrell and Harrell.