At a glance

QUICK SUMMARY

01 Type of medicine

Gel

02 Generic

No

03 Active ingredient

Lidocaine Hydrochloride

04 Effective within

Varies; consult packaging

05 Works by

Temporarily numbing the gums

06 Side effects

Localized irritation, mild numbing

Medication details

Description

Anbesol Teething Gel 10g

Anbesol Teething Gel is used to relieve the discomfort of teething in infants and young children at the ages stated on the pack. Teething is a normal part of development as the first teeth come through the gums, but it can be genuinely uncomfortable, and the gel is applied directly to the affected gum.

How it works

The active ingredient, lidocaine hydrochloride, is a local anaesthetic. It blocks the nerve signals from the small area it is applied to, so the tenderness and soreness of the gum are temporarily reduced. The relief is local and short lived, since saliva washes the gel away, which is why it is applied at the times when the discomfort is worst rather than continuously.

How to use it

Wash your hands, then apply a small amount to the affected gum with a clean fingertip, following the pack for the amount, the frequency and the maximum in 24 hours. Do not exceed it. Non medicated measures are worth trying first and alongside: a chilled (not frozen) teething ring, something firm to chew on, and gentle pressure on the gum with a clean finger all help, and many babies need nothing more.

Who it is for

It is for infants and young children at the ages printed on the pack. Check the pack carefully for the minimum age and ask a pharmacist if your baby is younger than that or if you are unsure, since teething products differ in what they contain and who they suit.

Safety and when to get advice

Teething does not cause a high temperature, diarrhoea or a baby who seems genuinely unwell. If any of those are present, something else is going on and your baby should be seen rather than treated for teething. Contact a doctor urgently for a high temperature, unusual drowsiness, poor feeding, fewer wet nappies, difficulty breathing, or a rash that does not fade under pressure. Our UK pharmacy team can answer questions about this product before you buy.

Common questions

From what age can it be used?
Check the pack for the minimum age, and ask a pharmacist if your baby is younger or you are unsure.

Does teething cause a fever?
No. A high temperature means your baby should be assessed rather than treated for teething.

What else helps?
A chilled teething ring, something firm to chew on and gentle gum pressure. Many babies need nothing more.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before use.

Directions

Using Anbesol Teething Gel is simple and safe. Follow these easy steps to provide your baby with soothing relief:
Clean Hands: Before applying the gel, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly to maintain hygiene.

- Dosage: Squeeze a small pea-sized amount of Anbesol Teething Gel onto a clean fingertip. This amount is suitable for one application.

- Application: Gently rub the gel onto the baby's gums using your fingertip. Avoid using excessive pressure to prevent any discomfort.

- Frequency: You can apply the gel to the affected area up to 4 times a day, as needed. Ensure that there is at least a 3-hour interval between applications.

- Avoid Ingestion: It's important to make sure the baby does not swallow the gel during application. Monitor them closely after application.

Ingredients

Anbesol Teething Gel contains active and inactive ingredients that work together to provide relief from teething discomfort. The active ingredient is Lidocaine Hydrochloride, a local anesthetic that temporarily numbs the area it's applied to. The gel also includes other ingredients such as purified water, sorbitol solution, hydroxyethylcellulose, and flavoring agents to ensure a pleasant experience for your baby.

Side Effects

While Anbesol Teething Gel is generally well-tolerated, there is a possibility of side effects, although they are rare. Some potential side effects may include:

- Allergic Reactions: Some babies may be sensitive to certain ingredients in the gel. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, or swelling, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

- Local Irritation: In rare cases, the gel might cause mild irritation at the application site. If this occurs, stop using the product and consult your healthcare provider.

- Numbness: Due to the presence of Lidocaine Hydrochloride, the gel may cause a temporary numbing sensation in the mouth area. This is expected and will wear off as the gel is absorbed.

Warnings

Anbesol Teething Gel is intended for use on infants and young children experiencing teething discomfort. However, there are some important warnings to keep in mind:

- Age Restrictions: This product is not suitable for babies under the age of 5 months. Always check the packaging for age recommendations and follow your healthcare provider's advice.

- Dosage Limit: Do not exceed the recommended dosage of 4 applications per day. Excessive use can lead to unwanted effects.

- Medical Conditions: If your baby has a history of allergies, medical conditions, or is currently taking any medications, consult a healthcare professional before using Anbesol Teething Gel.

- Avoid Eye Contact: Take care to avoid getting the gel in the baby's eyes. If this happens, rinse the eyes thoroughly with water.

- Swallowing the Gel: Although the gel is designed to be safe if used as directed, it's important to ensure that the baby does not swallow the gel during application.

Medically reviewed and published

  • This page was medically reviewed by Dr Sohaib Imtiaz, Clinical Lead on Oct 5, 2023, 2:30 pm

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

How does Anbesol Teething Gel bring about relief for my baby's teething discomfort?

Anbesol Teething Gel incorporates Lidocaine Hydrochloride, an active ingredient renowned for its ability to temporarily numb the gums. This targeted approach offers a respite from the unease and tenderness often associated with teething.

Is Anbesol Teething Gel suitable for very young infants?

It's imperative to note that Anbesol Teething Gel is not recommended for infants aged below 5 months. To guarantee the utmost safety and effectiveness, please adhere unwaveringly to the age recommendations stipulated on the product's packaging.

Are there any potential adverse effects that I should be mindful of?

While instances are rare, it's conceivable that localized irritation or mild numbing sensations may occur. Should your baby display any unfavorable reactions, it is advisable to promptly cease usage and seek counsel from a healthcare professional.

With what frequency can I administer the gel to soothe my baby's gums?

Anbesol Teething Gel may be applied up to four times a day, ensuring that a minimum of three hours separates each application. Adhering to the prescribed usage guidelines guarantees an optimal and consistent relief experience.

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