June 26, 2014 — Teething infants should not be given lidocaine gel because it is not necessary or useful, and they can potentially swallow too much and suffer seizures, brain damage, heart problems, or death.
At least 22 infants have been seriously injured by lidocaine gel (prescription oral viscous lidocaine 2% solution), including six who died. All of the children were under 3.5 years old. They were given lidocaine for teething pain, oral inflammation, fever blisters, oral lesions, and more. Most of the injuries occurred when infants were given high doses or accidentally swallowed too much.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a Safety Communication with the following warning:
“Topical pain relievers and medications that are rubbed on the gums are not necessary or even useful because they wash out of the baby’s mouth within minutes. … Cases of overdose due to wrong dosing or accidental ingestion have resulted in infants and children being hospitalized or dying.”
Over-the-Counter Benzocaine Teething Gels
In 2011, the FDA also warned against using over-the-counter teething gels containing benzocaine. The agency has received a total of 27 reports of infants who developed methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious side effect that can cause very low levels of oxygen in the bloodstream. Six incidents have been reported since the warnings in 2011. Click here to read more.
OTC benzocaine gels and liquids:
- Anbesol
- Hurricaine
- Orajel
- Baby Orajel
- Orabase
How Should I Treat Teething Pain?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a teething ring that has been chilled in the refrigerator (not frozen). You can also gently rub or massage your child’s gums with your finger to relieve symptoms of teething.
Do I have a Teething Gel Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting teething gel induced injury cases in all 50 states. If your child or somebody you know has been injured by lidocaine or benzocaine, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Drug Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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