I was not aware that doctors are prescribing lidocaine for teething pain, but apparently it is still going on. Lidocaine is a dangerous drug that not only causes numbness (it is used to numb the skin for suturing), but also causes heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures, and death. The FDA has identified 22 cases of serious side effects and death in infants and toddlers using lidocaine for teething pain, mouth ulcers, or accidental ingestion. The FDA is adding a boxed warning to the drug’s label.
It should also be noted that benzocaine, the drug in over-the-counter teething gels, should not be used either and is no longer recommended. It too can cause serious and harmful side effects, though it is not as dangerous as lidocaine. Teething can be managed with chilled teething rings or washcloths, massage, and occasionally ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Do Teething Babies Need Medicine on Their Gums? No (FDA Consumer Update)
