FDA WARNING ON BENZOCAINE TEETHING PRODUCTS

FDA WARNING ON BENZOCAINE PRODUCTS
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published a drug safety communication on oral benzocaine products used in infants for teething. Benzocaine is the main ingredient in these gels and liquids which are applied to the gums or mouth to reduce pain.
The FDA has received reports of a rare but potentially life threatening condition known as methemoglobinemia caused by use of these products. The condition results in a great reduction of the amount of oxygen carried through the blood stream and, in most severe cases, can cause death. The FDA is recommending that benzocaine products should not be used on children less than two years of age, except under the advice and supervision of a health care professional. For more information, go to http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm250024.htm