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Teething tablets is a natural process that babies go through when their teeth begin to emerge from their gums. While it can be a painful and uncomfortable time for babies, there are ways to soothe their discomfort. One such method is teething tablets, which are a popular choice among parents. But, as with any medication or treatment, the safety of teething tablets has been a topic of concern for many parents. In this article, we will explore the question, “Are teething tablets safe?”.
What are Teething Tablets?
Teething tablets are small, dissolvable tablets that are designed to help soothe the pain and discomfort associated with teething in babies. They usually contain a combination of natural ingredients such as chamomile, coffee bean, and calcarea phosphorica. These tablets are taken orally and dissolve in the baby’s mouth, providing quick relief for their teething discomfort.
Are Teething Tablets Safe?
The safety of teething tablets has been a topic of concern for many parents. In the past, there have been reports of teething tablets causing harm to babies. However, it is important to note that not all teething tablets are created equal. Some teething tablets on the market have been recalled due to the presence of belladonna, a toxic substance that can cause serious harm to babies.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about the use of certain teething tablets that contain belladonna. The FDA has also recommended that parents avoid using these products and seek alternative teething remedies. However, there are still teething tablets on the market that do not contain belladonna and are considered safe for use.
It is important to note that teething tablets should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Parents should always read the label carefully and follow the recommended dosage. If a baby experiences any adverse reactions after taking teething tablets, parents should seek medical attention immediately.
Alternative Teething Remedies
If parents are concerned about the safety of teething tablets or if their baby has had an adverse reaction to them, there are alternative teething remedies available. Some of these include:
Teething Rings – Teething rings can be chilled in the refrigerator and then given to the baby to chew on. The cool temperature can help soothe the baby’s gums and provide relief from teething pain.
Cold Foods – Cold foods such as yogurt or pureed fruits can also be given to the baby to help soothe their gums. The cool temperature can provide relief and the soft texture is easy for babies to chew.
Massaging Gums – Massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger or a soft, damp cloth can help provide relief from teething pain.
Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers – Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be given to babies to help relieve teething pain. However, parents should always consult with a healthcare professional before giving any medication to their baby.
FDA Warns Against Teething Tablets
The FDA has issued a warning against the use of teething tablets, which are marketed to soothe teething pain in infants. The agency has received reports of serious adverse events, including seizures, in infants and children who have used these products. The FDA recommends that parents and caregivers stop using these products immediately and seek medical attention if their child experiences any adverse effects.
Teething tablets containing belladonna are not safe
Teething tablets containing belladonna (also known as “deadly nightshade”) are not considered safe, as they can cause serious side effects, including seizures and difficulty breathing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued multiple warnings about the use of teething tablets containing belladonna. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before giving any medication to a child, especially for teething-related symptoms.
Are Teething Tablets Effective?
Teething tablets are not recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to concerns about their safety and effectiveness. Some teething tablets contain belladonna, a potentially toxic substance, and there have been reports of adverse effects associated with their use. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for safe and effective teething remedies.
Teething tablets, which typically contain homeopathic ingredients, have not been proven to be effective for relieving teething symptoms in infants. In fact, some brands have been found to contain inconsistent and potentially harmful amounts of certain ingredients, such as belladonna. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against using teething tablets and suggests using safer methods for relieving teething discomfort, such as teething rings or gentle gum massage.
Other Teething Products
There are various teething products available in the market, including:
Teething rings: These are often made of silicone or rubber and are designed for babies to chew on to relieve teething pain.
Teething toys: These are similar to teething rings, but often have different textures and shapes to keep babies interested.
Teething necklaces: These are designed for moms to wear, and the baby can chew on the necklace while being held.
Teething biscuits: These are hard, dry biscuits that babies can gnaw on to relieve teething pain.
Teething gels: These are topical gels that can be applied to the baby’s gums to numb the area and provide temporary relief.
It’s important to note that some of these products may not be suitable for all babies, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a pediatrician before introducing new products to your baby.
Conclusion
The safety of teething tablets is a topic of concern for many parents. While some teething tablets have been recalled due to the presence of belladonna, there are still teething tablets on the market that are considered safe for use. However, it is important to use teething tablets only under the supervision of a healthcare professional and to always follow the recommended dosage. If a baby experiences any adverse reactions after taking teething tablets, parents should seek medical attention immediately. There are also alternative teething remedies available such as teething rings, cold foods, massaging gums, and over-the-counter pain relievers.