FDA Issues Notice of Possible Lead Poisoning Risk in Children

The New Mexico Department of Health received an alert from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding a powdered product called “Bo Ying compound,” which may contain high levels of lead.  The product is labeled in Chinese and English and marketed in retail outlets and online for the treatment of flu, fever, and nasal discharge in infants and children.

Exposure to lead can cause serious harm to the developing brain, kidneys, and other organs. Lead in the body is toxic, especially for children. Ongoing exposure to lead, even at low levels, can result in learning disabilities, reduced IQ, and behavioral problems.

In an effort to prevent lead poisoning and decrease elevated blood-lead levels in exposed children, the New Mexico Department of Health's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program provides education, home visits, lead risk assessment, and consultation with healthcare providers.

The FDA advises consumers to discontinue use and discard any “Bo Ying compound” they may have purchased. Additionally, parents and caregivers who may have given “Bo Ying compound” to their children should consult with their health care provider for evaluation and potential blood-lead testing.

Consumers and health care professionals are also encouraged to report to the FDA any adverse events related to the “Bo Ying compound” product. This report form can be found on the FDA’s MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form page.

For more information about the prevention and management of childhood lead poisoning in New Mexico, please call 505-476-1734 or submit an e-mail to doh-eheb@state.nm.us.

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FDA Emite una Notificación de Posible Riesgo de Envenenamiento por Plomo en Niños