The FDA has issued a warning to all parents and caretakers of young infants and toddlers in regards to use of a topical anesthetic known as “viscous lidocaine” for numbing teething pains; the medication has been linked to
several illnesses and deaths and is not intended for children and infants.
According to Forbes, the medication is designed for adults who experience oral discomfort or are having dental work done. The medication is to be spit out after covering the entire mouth, which is why it is a risk to children and infants. The label of the product originally stated that it could be used for teething children if proper caution was taken; however, the FDA is now placing a blackbox warning on the label of the product.
In 2014, the FDA was notified of 22 cases all involving children 3 and under linked to overdose of viscous lidocaine, including several deaths. Viscous Lidocaine overdose is extremely dangerous and can cause a wide range of problems from breathing in food to choking. Symptoms of overdose include seizures, shaking, vomiting, trouble seeing, confusion, and easily nodding off, according to CBS News.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has announced two safe alternatives when it comes to teething pains in infants and toddlers. One safe alternative is to purchase a teething ring and refrigerate prior to use. Another alternative is to alleviate gum pain by cleansing your hands and using fingers to slowly rub the gums, Forbes noted.