Over-the-counter eye drops and nose sprays could cause serious harm to children if ingested, according to a statement from the Food and Drug Administration. Children under the age of 5 are particularly vulnerable to such dangers.
The FDA cites 96 cases between 1985 and 2012 in which children swallowed eye drops and/or nose sprays and experienced severe health consequences as a result. Although no deaths were reported, complications included coma, decreased heart rate and breathing and sedation. Even ingesting very small amounts could lead to problems, such as nausea, vomiting, changes in heart rhythm and hypertension, necessitating hospitalization.
Although the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has suggested a requirement for child-resistant packaging on these products, currently most eye drops and nasal sprays do not have childproof containers. The FDA advises carefully storing all medication out of reach of children to prevent accidents.
If your child was seriously harmed by ingesting over-the-counter medication, get in touch with our product liability experts at www.verdictvictory.com or (949) 640-8222 for a free evaluation.
