It was suggested that a numbing agent might be helpful for the 4 month
infant with oral aversion if it is caused by pain.

This is an interesting and dangerous concept.
A Doc that I work with shared a case study with me-and I subsequently wrote
an article about it for our coalition newsletter.  Mom had sore nipples. Her
friend, who happened to be a doula, recommended that she apply an
over-the=counter teething gel: 7.5% Benzocaine. The infant ended up in the
ER with symptoms of cyanosis, lethargy, coughing, and apnea. After a number
of tests, it was determined that she had methemoglobinemia.  She was treated
with methylene blue, IV fluids, and Oxygen, and was able to go home the next
day. It was determined, however, that she had suffered some neurological
deficit as a result of the episode.
I have heard this advice being given on several occasions since hearing the
above case study. Very scary-methemoglobinemia can be life threatening.
the following is an excellent article about it-though it deals with an
adult, it is a helpful explaination.
Wurderman, Richard L. PharmD., et al. "Benzocaine-Induced Methemoglobinemia
During An Out-Patient Procedure" Pharmocotherapy 20(6):735-738, 2000
I would be interested to know if anyone else has heard of this advice being
given-to use a teething gel to sooth sore nipples. Is this something else to
educate moms not to do?
Diana


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