An increasing number of Australian babies are falling sick after being given a colic treatment that is potentially toxic, authorities have warned. Colic is characterised by long periods of excessive and unexplained crying. Health authorities in NSW have flagged ongoing reports of neonatal children and infants presenting to GPs and emergency departments with suspected anticholinergic syndrome.
“Clinicians are advised to have heightened suspicion for 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 include red flushed skin, dry skin, dry mouth, dilated pupils, increased heart rate, urinary retention, gastrointestinal issues, raised temperature, agitation, drowsiness, floppiness, poor feeding and occasionally seizures.