Warning for children using mouth ulcer gels

Pain relief gels  which contain salicylate salts should not be used by children and young people under the age of 16, according to new recommendations issued today by  the Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Authority.

The MHRA said the advice was precautionary, and is being introduced due to a 'theoretical risk ' of children developing Reye's Syndrome after using products such as Bonjela  and Bonjela Cool Mint. Reyes Syndrome is a rare but potentially fatal condition which causes severe liver and brain damage in children after taking aspirin. Salicylate salts are similar to some of the components of aspirin.

The new recommendations have risen as a result of three children being hospitalised with suspected Reyes's syndrome after using oral gels containing salicylate salts. In an additional four cases children had vomiting or diarrhoea  following the use of Bonjela for teething pain. All made a full recovery.

In a statement issued, Dr. June Raine from the MHRA said:

" Any risk from these oral gel products is theoretical. We are not aware of any confirmed cases, but when there are alternatives available, any risk is not worth taking."

Main products affected :

• Bonjela
• Bonjela Cool
• Pyralvex (pharmacy only product)

Main products unaffected:

• Bonjela Teething Gel
• Calgel
• Dentinox
• Anbesol Teething Gel
• Anbesol Liquid

Bonjela teething gel can still be used as it is designed for children and does not contain saicylates.

The MHRA advised parents to use alternative forms of pain relief for mouth ulcers and sores such as salt water mouth washes.  Dental gels containing antiseptics/anaesthetics and chilled teething rings could also be used to help with pain caused by teething.

This article was published on Thu 23 April 2009