FDA says no to numbing gels on teething tots

Topical soothing products pose dangers, agency says

If you have a teething toddler, put down the numbing gel.

That’s the message from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which is warning parents of the dangers of topical soothing products containing benzocaine.

The FDA reports that benzocaine “poses a serious risk to infants and children,” and has “no demonstrated benefit.”

The products in question are sold as gels, sprays, ointments, solutions and lozenges under the over the counter brand names Anbesol, Baby Orajel, Cepacol, Chloraseptic, Hurricaine, Orabase, Orajel and Topex, as well as store brands and generics

Benzocaine has been linked to methemoglobinemia, which is a dangerous condition in which the amount of oxygen carried through the bloodstream is greatly reduced. WebMd.com says the illness is rare but serious, and in severe cases, it can be lifethreatening.

Those who develop the condition may have shortness of breath or feel fatigued, confused and lightheaded. It can also cause a rapid heart rate and pale, gray or blue-tinged skin, lips and nail beds.

It’s interesting to note that the FDA previously warned of the condition, according to a 2011 WebMD report. At that point, the FDA said that benzocaine products should not be given to children younger than age 2 unless under the supervision of a health care professional.

This week’s warning, however, says the products should no longer be marketed, and the FDA has asked companies to stop selling products for such use. “If the companies do not comply, the FDA will initiate a regulatory action to remove these products from the market,” the press release states.

If you are the parent of a teething child, that news might sound daunting. What should you do instead? The FDA suggests following the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics — give the child a teething ring made of firm rubber, or gently rub the child’s gums with a finger to relieve the symptoms.

If you have any of these products in your home, set them aside, and talk to your child’s doctor about how to proceed.