Australian babies are becoming sick more than ever after receiving colic treatment that could be potentially toxic, health experts have warned.
NSW Health has revealed that an increasing number of neonatal children and infants are presenting to doctors and emergency departments with suspected anticholinergic syndrome.
The syndrome can be affected by belladonna, a colic treatment that can be potentially toxic.
Colic is described as long periods of excessive and unexplained crying.
Parents are warned about harmful colic treatment drugs (stock image)
The syndrome “may occur following administration of a ‘colic preparation’ purchased online containing belladonna,” NSW Health warned.
Belladonna is a poisonous plant that can be harmful to babies and young children, even when administered in small doses.
‘Physicians are advised to have a heightened suspicion of belladonna toxicity in neonates, infants and young children presenting with symptoms of anticholinergic syndrome where ‘colic preparations have been ingested’, NSW Health said.
Signs and symptoms of the syndrome include: flushed skin, dry skin, dry mouth, dilated pupils, increased heart rate, urinary retention, gastrointestinal problems, elevated temperature, agitation, drowsiness, weakness, poor nutrition, and sometimes seizures.
NSW Health has warned that babies can become ill within 30 minutes and four hours of ingesting the poison.
Parents across Australia are being urged not to take medicines containing the plant.
Queensland Health has also warned residents to be alert to the drug.
