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Anbesol Children: Effective Pain Relief for Little Ones

Mohommed Essop-Adam
Reviewed by Mohommed Essop-AdamReviewed on 30.10.2023 | 4 minutes read
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Anbesol children come in a topical liquid and gel, which offers temporary pain relief in the mouth.

Anbesol offers a range of local anaesthetics, including gels and liquids, which come in adult and child strengths. Comparatively, Anbesol children's liquid and gel both contain the same strength and are found behind the counter in the pharmacy. With Lidocaine as its active ingredient, Anbesol offers a safe and effective way to ease pain in children as young as five months old

Who is Anbesol Children for

Anbesol Children is designed for infants, toddlers, and children who need relief from mouth pain. Whether it’s due to painful teething, mouth sores, or irritation from dentures, Anbesol can bring much-needed comfort. This product is suitable for children over five months old, making it a go-to for parents dealing with teething discomfort in babies.

Two different forms of Anbesol Children are available: the gel and the liquid. The gel is ideal for targeting smaller, specific areas of pain, while the liquid is better suited for covering larger areas. The liquid can also be applied to pacifiers or dentures, making it versatile and convenient.

How does Anbesol Children work?

The key to Anbesol’s effectiveness lies in its active ingredients. The main ingredient, Lidocaine, is a local anaesthetic. It works by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain, numbing the area where it’s applied. This provides immediate relief from discomfort, allowing babies and young children to feel more comfortable during teething or while dealing with mouth ulcers.

In addition to Lidocaine, Anbesol contains chlorocresol and cetylpyridinium chloride, both of which are antiseptics. These ingredients help prevent infection in the area, reducing the risk of complications while the mouth heals.

For parents, this means Anbesol not only numbs pain but also keeps the treated area clean and protected, speeding up recovery. It’s a simple yet effective solution for managing common childhood oral discomforts.

Benefits of Anbesol Children

Targeted pain relief

Both the gel and the liquid versions are designed to offer fast, effective relief.

Versatility

The gel is perfect for small, targeted areas like ulcers, while the liquid can be used on larger areas, pacifiers, or dentures.

Safe for children

Suitable for children over five months, Anbesol Children is a reliable option for babies going through the painful teething process.

Sugar-Free

Anbesol contains no sugar, making it a better choice for children with dietary restrictions or those at risk for dental issues.

Pharmacist recommended products

When Not to Use Anbesol

While Anbesol Children is generally safe for most, there are certain situations where it’s important to avoid using it. The gel and liquid are not suitable for babies under five months of age. This is particularly important to note for parents seeking a solution for infants who are still under this age threshold. Additionally, Anbesol should not be used for teething for more than seven days in a row. If there’s no improvement after this period, consult a doctor to explore other treatment options.

Anbesol should also be avoided by anyone who is allergic to any of its ingredients. It is not recommended for use in people with porphyria, a rare genetic disorder that affects the production of haemoglobin. Lastly, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to talk to your doctor before using Anbesol to ensure it is safe for both you and your baby.

Side Effects and Precautions of Anbesol Children

Most children tolerate Anbesol Children well, but as with any medication, side effects can occur. The most common side effects are related to allergic reactions. These may include:

  • Skin irritation at the site of application
  • Redness or swelling
  • Rash or itching

If you notice these symptoms, stop using Anbesol and immediately contact your doctor or pharmacist. It’s also essential to monitor the treated area to ensure the ulcer or irritation is not worsening. If symptoms persist or the pain does not improve, consult a healthcare professional for further advice.

For those using Anbesol for teething relief, remember that while it can provide effective pain management, it is not a cure for teething and should only be used temporarily.

How to Apply Anbesol Children

To ensure Anbesol Children works effectively, follow these steps:

  1. Clean the affected area - gently wipe your child’s mouth with a clean cloth or gauze to remove debris.
  2. Apply a small amount - use a clean fingertip or cotton swab to apply a thin gel layer to the affected area. Carefully apply a few drops to the mouth or on a pacifier for the liquid.
  3. Wait before eating or drinking - give your child time to allow the product to work before offering food or drink.
  4. Repeat as needed - Anbesol can be applied every three hours, but avoid using it more frequently than recommended.

The gel form may be more straightforward for pinpointed application, while the liquid is more effective for wider coverage. Choose the version that best fits your child’s needs.

Additional Considerations

It’s always a good idea to keep Anbesol on hand for emergencies, but if your child’s pain doesn’t seem to improve or if you have any concerns, speak with your healthcare provider. It’s also useful to remember that while Anbesol provides fast relief, it is not a long-term solution. If your child’s discomfort continues or worsens, it might be time to explore other medical options.

Anbesol is a go-to product for many parents facing the discomforts of teething or mouth ulcers in children. Its targeted, fast-acting relief, combined with antiseptic protection, helps make sure your child is comfortable and on the road to recovery.

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Mohommed Essop-Adam
Reviewed by Mohommed Essop-Adam
Reviewed on 30.10.2023
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