The use of mercury, a primary component of calomel, in teething powders was banned in 1948 due to its harmful effects on children. While calomel itself was a widely used compound containing mercury, this specific ban highlights a key moment in the phasing out of mercury in medical applications.
The Historical Use of Calomel and Mercury
Calomel, known chemically as mercurous chloride (Hg₂Cl₂), was a prevalent medicinal substance for centuries. Its history is marked by its widespread application, despite a growing understanding of mercury's toxicity.
- Early Applications: Calomel was historically used to treat a wide array of ailments. Physicians administered it for conditions ranging from venereal diseases to various fevers, including yellow fever.
- 19th Century Popularity: By the 1860s, calomel pills were particularly popular. They were prescribed for common complaints such as constipation and even psychological conditions like depression, reflecting the medical practices of the era.
- Mercury in Children's Products: Mercury's presence extended to pediatric care, notably in teething powders, which were given to infants to alleviate discomfort during teething. This practice continued for decades, even as concerns about its safety mounted.
The 1948 Ban on Mercury in Teething Powders
The specific ban in 1948 targeted mercury in teething powders. This decision was a direct response to the documented instances of children becoming ill from exposure to mercury in these products.
| Year | Event | Implication for Calomel/Mercury Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1860s | Calomel pills popular | Widespread use for various maladies. |
| 1948 | Mercury in teething powder banned | Direct acknowledgment of mercury toxicity in a common medical product for children. |
The ban on mercury in teething powders marked a significant step in medical regulation, demonstrating a shift towards greater scrutiny of drug safety, especially concerning vulnerable populations like infants. While the reference specifies the ban on mercury in teething powder, calomel, being a mercury compound, falls under the broader context of substances whose uses were gradually discontinued or restricted due to safety concerns.
