As reported in national news media, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advised today that 10 deaths of children who used homeopathic teething tablets and 400 adverse events associated with the tablets have been reported. Homeopathic teething tablets and gels are distributed by CVS, Hyland’s, and possibly others, and are sold in retail stores and online. The FDA warned caregivers to stop using these products, dispose of any in their possession and to take their child to a doctor immediately if the child experiences problems. Specifically, caregivers should seek medical care immediately if their child experiences seizures, difficulty breathing, lethargy, excessive sleepiness, muscle weakness, skin flushing, constipation, difficulty urinating, or agitation after using homeopathic teething tablets or gels.
“Teething can be managed without prescription or over-the-counter remedies,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “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.”
Hyland’s, a maker of homeopathic teething tablets and gels, said this week that it will stop distributing the products in the United States.
The FDA has been analyzing adverse events reported to the agency regarding homeopathic teething tablets and gels, including seizures in infants and children who were given these products, since a 2010 safety alert about homeopathic teething tablets.
Homeopathic teething tablets and gels have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safety or efficacy. The agency also reports that it is not aware of any proven health benefit of the products.
Attorney Pamela Borgess, the founder of Borgess Law, LLC, has successfully represented multiple clients who have sustained serious injury or whose loved ones have died as a result of defective and recalled products. For more information or to speak with Attorney Borgess, contact Borgess Law, LLC at (567) 455-5955. You can also contact Borgess Law, LLC by submitting an online inquiry. Borgess Law, LLC never charges a fee for an initial consultation.