Nipple Cream for Nursing Mothers Could Harm Infants

A cream sold to nursing mothers to help soothe dry and cracked nipples contains ingredients potentially harmful to babies, the FDA is warning.

Mommy's Bliss Nipple Cream contains chlorphenesin and phenoxyethanol, which can affect an infant's central nervous system, causing respiratory depression, vomiting, and diarrhea. The agency has not received any reports of injuries related to the product, and it is issuing the warning, it says, because of the potential for harm.

Loss of appetite, somnolence, and decrease in grip strength are signs that should prompt medical attention, according to the FDA.

MOM Enterprises, the company marketing the product, is offering a full refund for returned cream.