Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban, medical director and pediatrician at myPediaclinic (Voted best pediatric clinic in Dubai) wishes to keep parents up to date on the latest dangers in everyday items found in our homes. This time it is the popular teething gels.

On September 30,2016 the FDA has issues a press announcement stating that parents should not use teething tablets and gels found over the counter as they have been related to seizures in children. In addition to difficulty breathing, lethargy, excessive sleepiness, muscle weakness, skin flushing, constipation, difficulty urinating, or agitation. Dr. Medhat recommends you throw the ones you have immediately.

The FDA has announced that they have never been approved and are not aware of any evidence proving that they actually work.

Alternative options to soothe painful teething

Discuss with your child’s pediatrician the best teething reliefing remedies such as non-numbing teething gel. As breastmilk has pain killing properties, it would be helpful to breastfeed more often during teething periods.

Cold teethers may also help, however avoid using frozen teethers as they may irritate the gums.