Ulcer gels warning for children

BBC News

Mouth ulcer and teething treatments containing salicylate salts should not be used by children under the age of 16, UK experts have said.

There is a theoretical risk that these products could cause a serious condition called Reye's syndrome.

But the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said the advice was only precautionary.

The main products affected are Bonjela and Bonjela Cool Mint Gel, but Bonjela Teething Gel is not affected.

Salicylate salts have the same effect on the body as aspirin, which experts have already warned should not be used by children.

The MHRA has received reports of three children being hospitalised after using oral gels containing choline salicylate.

However, Reye's syndrome was not confirmed in any of the cases.

In a further four cases children experienced vomiting or diarrhoea after using Bonjela for teething pain, but all made a full recovery.

The MHRA stressed there were a number of alternative treatments for pain associated with teething and mouth ulcers. Read more...