Hyland's Teething Tablet® Lawsuit

Hyland’s Homeopathic Teething Tablets & Gels for babies contain poisonous belladonna (deadly nightshade). After 10 deaths and 400 babies who got sick, all products were recalled in April 2017.

What You Can Do & How We Can Help

The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Hyland’s Teething Tablet induced injury cases in all 50 states. If your child had a seizure or belladonna poisoning, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Drug Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

Hyland’s Recalls All Homeopathic Teething Tablets

In April 2017, the FDA issued a Class I recall for all lots of Hyland’s homeopathic infant teething tablets for babies. Tests on the products found widely inconsistent levels of belladonna, sometimes far higher than what was on the label.

“Fundamental Lack of Control” Over Toxic Ingredients

Hyland’s initially refused to recall teething tablets, expressed no concern for babies who died, and slammed the FDA for creating “confusion” for customers. In April 2017, the FDA sent Hyland’s a Letter (PDF) demanding a recall.

The FDA cited a number of manufacturing violations that were observed at the company’s facility in Los Angeles, including specific test results showing high levels of belladonna, and said the products “represent a serious health hazard.”

“This variability in belladonna alkaloid concentrations indicates a fundamental lack of control over the content of toxic chemicals in your drug.”

Hyland’s Teething Tablets Recalled in 2010 for Same Problem

In October 2010, the FDA warned consumers to stop using and throw away Hyland’s Teething Tablets after reports of babies who had seizures or other symptoms of belladonna poisoning.

The FDA analysis and testing identified that some Hyland’s Teething Tablets that contained “varying amounts of belladonna.” The products were recalled and “re-formulated,” but returned to store shelves in early 2011.

10 Baby Deaths Linked to Homeopathic Teething Tablets

Over the next six years, the FDA received another 400 reports of children who had seizures, fever, vomiting and other injuries consistent with belladonna poisoning, including 10 babies who died. Some of the reports from parents are absolutely heart-wrenching:

“My daughter had a seizure, lost consciousness, and stopped breathing about 30 minutes after I gave her three Hyland’s Teething Tablets… She had to receive mouth-to-mouth CPR to resume breathing and was brought to the hospital.”

FDA Issues New Consumer Warning

The FDA re-opened its investigation on September 9, 2016, and issued a new warning on September 30. After testing products, the FDA warned that some products had levels of belladonna “far exceeding the amount claimed on the label” and said parents should not give them to babies.

What is the problem?

Belladonna poisoning: Babies who were given Hyland’s Teething Tablets have had seizures and other symptoms consistent with “deadly nightshade” toxicity.
Inconsistent amounts of belladonna: FDA lab tests found that some products had more belladonna than others. Hyland’s insists a baby would have to take a massive overdose to experience side effects, but this is only true if the product actually contains an extremely small amount of belladonna.
Lack child-resistant caps: There have been reports of children who consumed too much, according to the FDA. The products come in cardboard boxes and squeeze-tubes that can easily be opened by a child.

CVS Stops Selling Homeopathic Teething Tablets & Gels

In October 2016, CVS pulled all homeopathic teething tablets and gels off store shelves. Hyland’s also announced that it would discontinue the products. The products include:

Baby Orajel Naturals Gel for Teething Pain, .33 oz
Baby Orajel Naturals Gel for Teething Pain Nighttime Formula, .33 oz
Baby Orajel Naturals Tablets for Teething Pain, 125 Count
CVS Homeopathic Infant’s Teething Tablet, 135 Count
CVS Homeopathic Infants’ Teething Liquid, .85 oz
Hyland’s Baby Nighttime Teething Tablets, 135 Count
Hyland’s Baby Teething Gel, .5 oz
Hyland’s Baby Teething Tablets, 13 Count
Hyland’s Baby Teething Tablets, 135 Count
Hyland’s Teething Gel, .33 oz

How to Manage Teething Without Medications

There are many ways to soothe sore gums in a teething baby. First of all, do not give your baby topical anesthetic gels like Benzocaine or Lidocaine — these products can cause a deadly reaction called methemoglobinemia. Instead, try gently massaging the baby’s gums using your fingers, giving your baby a cool washcloth or chilled teething ring (not frozen) to chew on, or hard foods like a cucumber if your baby is eating solid foods.

Symptoms of Belladonna Poisoning

Belladonna, also known as “deadly nightshade,” is one of the most toxic plants on Earth. It contains a chemical called atropine that blocks functions of the nervous system. It has been used throughout history as both a poison and a medicine. The symptoms of belladonna poisoning include:

Seizures
Trouble breathing
Excessive sleepiness
Muscle weakness
Fast heart-rate
Hot body temperature
Dry mouth
Skin flushing
Constipation
Less urination
Agitation or irritability
Disorientation
Hallucination
Dilated pupils
Death

Hyland’s Class Action Lawsuit

A number of class action lawsuits have been filed against Hyland’s by consumers who say they were misled about the safety and effectiveness of homeopathic products. These class actions are seeking reimbursement for everyone who bought products that were falsely advertised. They are not designed to maximize compensation for individuals who experienced severe side effects.

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Hyland’s Teething Tablet Lawsuit