A Derry pharmacist has urged parents not to fret over a recent health scare surrounding Bonjela teething gel.
Christina O’Kelly, from Gordon’s Chemist on Strand Road, says Bonjela Teething Gel is not affected by the scare and is safe to use on babies and toddlers.
Her remarks come after the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued
precautionary advice that ulcer treatments containing salicylate salts should not be used by children under the age of 16.
Salicylate salts have the same effect on the body as aspirin, which experts have already warned should not be used by children.
“Bonjela teething gel is fine,” said Mrs Kelly. “The warning is only for the ulcer treatment gel which is not recommended for under-16s,” she said.
“This product has not been taken off the shelves, but when treatment for ulcers is needed for a child under 16, we will recommend another product.”
The main products affected are Bonjela and Bonjela Cool Mint Gel, but Bonjela Teething Gel, Calgel, Anbesol Teething Gel, Anbesol Liquid and Dentinox are safe to use.
Reckitt Benckiser, which makes Bonjela, said it had redesigned packaging to make it easier for consumers to choose the right gel.
