The Food and Drug Administration is currently investigating 10 infant deaths suspected to be related to homeopathic teething gels and tablets. According to a warning issued by the FDA, the teething products were distributed by Hyland’s, CVS, and “possibly others,” both in stores and online. The FDA strongly encourages parents and caregivers to discontinue use of any homeopathic teething gels or tablets until their safety and efficacy can be verified.
This is the second time the FDA has issued a safety warning over Hyland’s teething tablets. The first came in 2010 over concerns that the amount of belladonna, a potentially deadly substance, was “inconsistent” between batches and may pose serious risks to babies. The products were reformulated at that time and reintroduced to the market in 2011.
The FDA has no authority to recall homeopathic remedies. The New York Times reports that CVS has voluntarily taken the products off of their shelves, but notes that “the company defended the safety of its products, saying consumers can choose whether to follow the F.D.A.’s advice.” The FDA’s advice, in this case, is to discontinue use and to take your child to the emergency room immediately if you have used teething tablets or gels and your child develops:
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy
- Excessive sleepiness
- Muscle weakness
- Skin flushing
- Constipation
- Difficulty urinating
- Agitation
Although the FDA lacks the power to recall homeopathic remedies, companies that manufacture them do not operate above the law. When a homeopathic company creates a dangerous or defective medication, they are liable for any damages that may follow. The Atlanta product liability lawyers at our firm are prepared to work swiftly on these cases and to assist families struggling with the deadly side-effects of any infant medication get the justice they truly deserve.
If your child has suffered harm after taking a homeopathic teething remedy, please contact Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC online or by calling our Atlanta office at 404-760-7400 to schedule a free consultation right away.