Teething Tablets May Pose Risk

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers to stop using and discard Hyland’s Teething Tablets and the manufacturer has recalled them. Upon investigation, these untested, over-the-counter homeopathic tablets have been found to contain varying amounts of belladonna, which can be toxic to children in large doses. Symptoms of this toxicity include a depressed level of consciousness, seizures, slowed breathing, lethargy, sleepiness and or agitation. If these are seen a pediatrician should be consulted immediately.

PositiveTip: Mild symptoms can be expected, including fussiness, 3 to 5 days prior to erruption of new teeth. A cold teething ring or clean finger to gently rub the baby’s gums for 2 minutes is often soothing.