29 April 2009
Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust's most senior pharmacist has issued a warning to the local community about the risks associated with people under the age of 16 using teething gels and mouth ulcer treatments that contain salicylate salts, which work in a similar way to aspirin.
Anne Davies, Chief Pharmacist's precautionary advice follows guidance published by the national Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) last week.
Aspirin is not suitable for young children because it is believed to have links with Reye's disease - a rare condition that attacks the brain and liver. It has now been found that oral gels containing salicylate salts have the same effect on the body as aspirin, and should also be avoided by children and young people.
Anne said: "For several years now, parents have been advised not to give aspirin and other products containing salicylates to children, and now that advice has been extended to teething gels and mouth ulcer treatments.
"The risk is theoretical, but it is always best to err on the side of caution. There are alternative treatments available, so it's really not worth the risk of using products that contain these salts in young people under the age of 16.
"If you are in any doubt at all, please do not hesitate to contact your local pharmacist, dentist, GP or health visitor. You can also contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit their website (www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk).
Products affected:
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Bonjela
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Bonjela Cool Mint
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Pyralvex
Products not affected:
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Bonjela Teething Gel
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Calgel
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Anbesol Teething Gel
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Anbesol Liquid
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Dentinox
Alternative treatments for infant teething include gentle pressure with something cool such as a chilled teething ring may be helpful in relieving teething pain.
There are a number of other products on the market which contain a local anaesthetic/mild antiseptic which can be used for the treatment of teething pain or mouth ulcers in children and young people and which do not contain a salicylate.
For pain associated with orthodontic devices, salt water mouthwashes are recommended for sore areas. For discomfort arising from tooth movement a paracetamol based painkiller is recommended.
