Why Parents Should Stop Using Homeopathic Teething Tablets and Gels Immediately

The Food and Drug Administration is alerting parents about using homeopathic teething tablets and gels after it found a notable link between the products and the deaths of 10 small children. In a press release, the FDA warned parents to dispose of any homeopathic teething tablets and gels, specifically those made by CVS and Hyland's.

The FDA is still investigating how exactly these teething products may have been related to the deaths, which have occurred over the past six years. They did, however, state that the tablets and gels often led to seizures in infants and children.

In 2010, the FDA consulted the Standard Homeopathic Company, which then voluntarily recalled the same Hyland's tablets after they were linked to high levels of belladonna toxicity. Since then, however, Hyland's made changes to the product.

A director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Janet Woodcock, said, "Teething can be managed without prescription or over-the-counter remedies," adding, "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."

As the investigation continues, it's recommended that parents avoid these products at all costs and seek medical care if they have used these products and their child experiences difficulty breathing, seizures, agitation, and other symptoms listed in the press release.