Is boric acid an effective treatment for bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. What are the potential risks and side effects of using boric acid suppositories. How does boric acid compare to prescription treatments for vaginal infections.

Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis and Yeast Infections

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections are common vaginal health issues that many women experience. While they share some similarities, these conditions have distinct causes and symptoms.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there’s an imbalance in the natural bacteria within the vagina. This overgrowth of certain bacteria can lead to uncomfortable symptoms. What are the main signs of BV? The most common indicators include:

• A thin, grayish-white vaginal discharge
• A strong, fishy odor, especially after sexual intercourse
• Burning sensation during urination
• Itching or irritation around the vaginal area

Identifying Yeast Infections

Yeast infections, on the other hand, are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. How can you recognize a yeast infection? Look out for these typical symptoms:

• Thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge
• Intense itching and irritation in and around the vagina
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Burning sensation during urination or sexual intercourse

Understanding the differences between these conditions is crucial for proper treatment. While some symptoms may overlap, the underlying causes and optimal treatments differ.

The Rise of Boric Acid as a Home Remedy

In recent years, boric acid has gained popularity as a home remedy for vaginal infections. Why has this trend emerged? Social media platforms have played a significant role in promoting boric acid as an alternative treatment option. Many users claim success in treating both bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections using boric acid suppositories or washes.

However, it’s essential to approach these claims with caution. Are anecdotal reports enough to justify widespread use? Medical professionals emphasize the importance of scientific evidence and proper medical guidance when dealing with vaginal health issues.

What is Boric Acid?

Boric acid is a weak acid derived from boron, a naturally occurring element. It has been used for various purposes, including as an antiseptic and insecticide. In the context of vaginal health, boric acid is typically used in the form of suppositories or as an ingredient in vaginal washes.

Effectiveness of Boric Acid for Vaginal Infections

The effectiveness of boric acid in treating bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections is a topic of ongoing research and debate. What does the current evidence suggest? Let’s examine the potential benefits and limitations of using boric acid for these conditions.

Boric Acid for Bacterial Vaginosis

Some studies have shown that boric acid may be helpful in treating bacterial vaginosis, particularly in cases that are resistant to standard treatments. How does it work? Boric acid is believed to help restore the vaginal pH balance and create an environment less favorable for harmful bacteria.

However, it’s important to note that boric acid is not typically recommended as a first-line treatment for BV. Why is this the case? Prescription antibiotics, such as metronidazole or clindamycin, are generally more effective and have a better safety profile.

Boric Acid for Yeast Infections

When it comes to yeast infections, boric acid may have some efficacy, particularly for infections caused by non-albicans Candida species. These types of infections can be more resistant to standard antifungal treatments. How effective is boric acid for yeast infections? Some studies have shown promising results, with success rates comparable to conventional antifungal medications in certain cases.

However, as with BV, boric acid is not typically recommended as the first choice for treating yeast infections. Why? Prescription antifungal medications, such as fluconazole, are generally more effective and have fewer potential side effects.

Safety Concerns and Side Effects of Boric Acid Use

While boric acid may have some potential benefits, it’s crucial to consider the safety aspects and potential side effects associated with its use. What are the main concerns regarding boric acid suppositories and washes?

Toxicity Risk

One of the most significant concerns with boric acid is its toxicity when ingested. How dangerous is boric acid if swallowed? Even a single boric acid suppository can be fatal if consumed orally. This poses a serious risk, especially in households with children or pets.

Irritation and Chemical Burns

Boric acid can cause significant irritation to the vaginal and vulvar tissues. In some cases, it may even lead to chemical burns. While these severe reactions are not common with proper use, they remain a potential risk. How can you minimize the risk of irritation? It’s crucial to follow dosage instructions carefully and discontinue use if any discomfort occurs.

Pregnancy Concerns

Boric acid is not recommended for use during pregnancy or for women trying to conceive. Why is this? While definitive studies are lacking, the potential risks to fetal development are considered too high given boric acid’s toxicity.

Regulatory and Quality Control Issues

Boric acid products, especially those sold as dietary supplements, are not well-regulated. This lack of oversight raises concerns about the quality and consistency of commercially available products. How can you ensure you’re using a safe product? It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using any boric acid treatments.

Comparing Boric Acid to Prescription Treatments

When considering treatment options for vaginal infections, it’s important to compare the effectiveness and safety of boric acid to prescription medications. How do these options stack up?

Effectiveness

Prescription treatments for bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections are typically more effective than boric acid. Why is this the case? These medications are specifically formulated to target the underlying causes of these infections and have undergone rigorous clinical trials to prove their efficacy.

• For bacterial vaginosis, antibiotics like metronidazole or clindamycin are the gold standard.
• For yeast infections, antifungal medications such as fluconazole or miconazole are highly effective.

Safety Profile

Prescription treatments generally have a better safety profile compared to boric acid. How do they compare in terms of side effects? While prescription medications can have side effects, they are typically milder and less frequent than those associated with boric acid use.

Ease of Use

Many prescription treatments are available in oral form, which can be more convenient than using suppositories or washes. How does this affect treatment compliance? Oral medications often lead to better adherence to the treatment regimen, potentially improving outcomes.

When Might Boric Acid Be Appropriate?

Despite the limitations and risks associated with boric acid, there are certain situations where it might be considered as part of a treatment plan. When could boric acid be a viable option?

Recurrent or Resistant Infections

For women experiencing recurrent or treatment-resistant vaginal infections, boric acid may be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. How is it typically used in these cases? Boric acid might be prescribed in combination with standard antifungal or antibiotic treatments to enhance their effectiveness.

Non-albicans Candida Infections

Boric acid may be particularly useful for yeast infections caused by non-albicans Candida species, which can be more resistant to standard antifungal treatments. Why is boric acid effective in these cases? It’s believed to create an inhospitable environment for these less common yeast strains.

Adjunct Therapy

In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend boric acid as an adjunct therapy to help maintain vaginal pH balance and prevent recurrent infections. How is it used in this context? It might be prescribed for intermittent use following a course of standard treatment to help prevent infection recurrence.

Seeking Professional Medical Advice

Given the complexities surrounding vaginal health and the potential risks associated with self-treatment, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice. Why is consulting a healthcare provider so important?

Accurate Diagnosis

Symptoms of various vaginal infections can be similar, making self-diagnosis challenging and potentially inaccurate. How can a healthcare provider help? They can perform the necessary tests to determine the exact cause of your symptoms, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Every woman’s body is unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. How do healthcare providers address this? They can create personalized treatment plans that take into account your medical history, symptoms, and any previous treatments you’ve tried.

Monitoring and Follow-up

Professional medical care includes monitoring your progress and adjusting treatment as needed. Why is this ongoing care important? It helps ensure that the treatment is effective and allows for timely intervention if complications arise or if the initial treatment isn’t working as expected.

Access to Prescription Treatments

By consulting a healthcare provider, you gain access to prescription medications that are often more effective and safer than over-the-counter or home remedies. How does this benefit you? It increases your chances of resolving the infection quickly and with fewer complications.

In conclusion, while boric acid has gained popularity as a home remedy for vaginal infections, it’s essential to approach its use with caution. The potential risks and limitations of boric acid make it crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before attempting to treat vaginal infections at home. Professional medical advice ensures accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and the best possible outcomes for your vaginal health.

Do boric acid suppositories and washes work for bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections?

Lately, people on social media have been pushing the benefits of boric acid use as an at-home treatment for bacterial vaginosis or BV, and yeast infections. But do the claims live up to the hype? Is it safe?

Sometimes it isn’t always easy to separate fact from fiction regarding home remedies. Here we take a closer look and provide some advice from Nebraska Medicine OB-GYN Katherine Lessman, MD.

Bacterial vaginosis or yeast infection? How to know

BV is a common vaginal infection that causes a bacterial imbalance. When normal vaginal bacteria overgrow, you may or may not notice any symptoms. You may notice vaginal discharge, a strong odor or irritation when you urinate.

A yeast infection occurs when the fungus candida overgrows. Symptoms typically include an itchy or burning sensation in and around your vagina, a thick, white vaginal discharge, vaginal and vulva redness, swelling, or burning while urinating.

What’s the difference?

Both conditions are vaginal infections, and the symptoms tend to trend toward patterns. Symptoms can overlap and can even mimic one another.

• Irritation and burning: BV doesn’t always include these symptoms, but yeast infections do
• Discharge: BV usually has a “fishy” smell. Yeast infections don’t typically have a strong smell but have a cottage cheese appearance

Do boric acid suppositories, or washes effectively treat bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections?

“Boric acid is a relatively simple treatment with a complicated reputation,” says Dr. Lessman. “It can be helpful and even important in a few specific contexts, but it’s rarely a first-line treatment. For yeast and bacterial vaginosis, prescription treatments are the most effective and are actually safer than boric acid.”

Boric acid may be helpful for resistant or recurrent vaginal infections when combined with a prescription antifungal or antibiotic. Most yeast infections are caused by candida albicans, so boric acid may be helpful for the exception – when caused by a less common yeast like candida glabrata. Since you don’t know what type is causing your problem, visiting your doctor for ongoing or reoccurring infections is best.

Are boric acid washes and suppositories safe? There are drawbacks

“Boric acid isn’t well regulated or thoroughly studied,” says Dr. Lessman. “Clinical studies were performed with boric acid suppositories made by compounding pharmacies. The commercially available formulations should be the same, but they haven’t proven that they deliver on their claims. And this is worse for the rinses or washes, whose drug delivery and efficacy is a mystery.” 

Additional downsides:

• Boric acid is highly toxic if swallowed. Suppositories are usually pills that are placed in a body cavity instead of being swallowed, but consuming a single pill can be fatal
• Boric acid can cause dramatic irritation, even to the point of chemical burn. Burns are not expected with daily use but are possible 
• Sexual partners may report skin irritation
• Boric acid is not recommended for pregnant women or those trying to get pregnant. Actual studies are lacking on this point. Still, if a single pill can be fatal to an adult, even a tiny amount that is absorbed vaginally isn’t wise for the health of a developing embryo

Have a woman’s health concern? Reach out to one of our experts. Call 800.922.0000 to make an appointment with one of our expert OB-GYNs.

You asked, we answered: Is there a home remedy for vaginal yeast infections?

Is there an oral pill or ointment option?

Read More

Think you might have a UTI or yeast infection? Get help with a quick telehealth visit

If you are experiencing itching, burning or general discomfort “down below,” there’s a good chance you may have a urinary tract or yeast infection.

Read More

You asked, we answered: What is this white, itchy vaginal discharge that won’t go away?

What is the white, itchy discharge after I’ve taken a yeast infection medicine, but it won’t go away? What else could it be? Our OB-GYN Kelsie Cabrera, MS, answers your questions you’re too embarrassed to ask your doctor.

Read More

Boric Acid Side Effects | pH-D Feminine Health

One of the most common issues surrounding vaginal health and wellness is managing vaginal odor. Because the vulva and vagina are generally moist, warm, and not exposed to much light and covered by some layers of clothing, it is normal that it may have a natural, mild odor that is mostly unnoticeable. But certain triggers can cause the odor to be stronger at times, such as heavy sweating, wearing a wet swimsuit for long periods of time, and wearing tight clothing. Unfortunately, many women feel embarrassed about their vaginal odor and hesitate to seek professional guidance on ways to properly care for and manage their vaginal health. There are several myths and no lack of inaccurate and false information about vaginal health, support, and management, so finding a reliable and safe source of information to care for this incredibly sensitive area is extremely important, especially if you’re unable to consult with a healthcare professional immediately.

The vaginal area, including the labia and vulva (the outer, exposed area), contains sweat glands and a unique microbiome of healthy bacteria that keep the area healthy, lubricated, and protected from harmful bacteria that can cause vaginal infection. Odor is one of the most common feminine care concerns women bring to their healthcare providers, and pH-D’s goal is to normalize the conversation about vaginal odor because many women feel shame about it. A holistic solution for this problem is vaginal boric acid products, which are safe as well as doctor recommended. pH-D Feminine Health vaginal products that include boric acid are available at over 45,000 commercial retailers nationwide, including Publix, CVS, Walmart, Walgreens, Kroger, Target, HEB, Meijer, and Amazon.

Boric acid has many uses and is a weak acid that is water soluble. It is a very common, accessible ingredient with many uses due to it being a natural compound found in seawater.

One of pH-D’s most popular and #1 doctor recommended products on the market is Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories. These suppositories are small capsules of dissolvable bovine gelatin containing a recommended 600 mg of boric acid to be inserted into the vagina as a holistic solution for vaginal odor and overall vaginal wellness. Insert one vaginal boric acid per day until you are odor free. If you are prone to vaginal odor, you can insert 2-4 suppositories per week. It is safe to use boric acid suppositories on a regular basis for vaginal odor.

So what is boric acid? For those who are unfamiliar, boric acid is a common compound that is found in seawater. It is a compound that has been used for over 100 years. In its purest form, boric acid is a white powder that is both colorless and odorless. Boric acid powder is a common and safe ingredient when used as directed. It is used in a variety of cosmetic products as well as feminine care products to help control vaginal odor.

Using boric acid is not the same as internal vaginal cleansing. Certain methods, such as using heavily scented soaps, mask odors instead of neutralizing them and can cause irritation. Boric acid suppositories contain one simple ingredient: boric acid, which is proven to assist with odor. Different feminine products containing boric acid have different uses, but all involve controlling vaginal odor. Boric Acid Moisturizing Suppositories include Vitamin E and coconut oil for the added benefit of moisture and aid in feeling comfortable. Holistic Body Wipes are great for everyday, on-the-go use to freshen up and gently cleanse the exterior part of the vagina (the vulva). pH-D Feminine Health was the first brand to make Boric Acid Suppositories available to women in 2014, and we’ve continued to grow our product offerings to make sure there’s a boric acid solution that fits into every woman’s lifestyle!

It is important that you know how to insert boric acid suppositories properly. Boric acid can be harmful if swallowed, but it can be safely used in vaginal suppository form by women as a solution for vaginal odor. If you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, you should not use boric acid. Keep in mind that you should never use boric acid or other similar suppositories if you have sores, ulcerations, open wounds, or if you have a sensitivity or allergy.

While boric acid has been long recommended for vaginal health, it’s important to understand its possible side effects. Read on to learn more.

You should be aware of the side effects that boric acid suppositories can have. Often harmless, the most common side effects include:

•   Mild burning or redness and irritation. This may occur if the boric acid suppository was not inserted far enough into the vagina or if you have any irritated tissue in the vagina or vulvar area.
•   Watery vaginal discharge or leakage. Wearing a panty liner is recommended.

If you are wondering, “Why does boric acid cause watery discharge?” read our guide.

Do not use boric acid suppositories or stop using them immediately if you have:

•   Any signs of an allergic reaction. Some women do experience minor irritation. 
•   If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
•   Any new or worsening symptoms, or symptoms that go away and come back.
•   Any open sores, wounds, or ulcerations in your vaginal area
•   Pain or tenderness in your pelvis or lower abdomen
•   Vaginal bleeding not related to menstruation
•   Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
•   An active sexually transmitted infection or disease
•   Of the age before you begin your menstrual cycle

If you use Nuvaring® vaginal birth control, we are not aware of the potential impact boric acid may have on its effectiveness, so consult with your healthcare provider or the manufacturer of Nuvaring® before use.

Boric acid suppositories can be safely used with an intrauterine device (IUD) birth control.

A small percentage of women experience spotting or bleeding when using boric acid suppositories. It is safe to continue use if you are comfortable doing so and if the bleeding is slight. However, if it worsens or you begin to experience vaginal irritation, burning, or more pronounced bleeding, we recommend you discontinue use and consult with a physician. Can you use boric acid on your period? It is safe to use boric acid on your period, but if you are not comfortable, wait until your period ends to use them again. 

It is safe to have sexual intercourse and oral sex once the boric acid suppository has completely dissolved. This can take anywhere from 4-12 hours. If you have sexual intercourse or oral sex before the boric acid suppository has completely dissolved, there may be some mild irritation or burning for your partner. Additionally, with oral sex, it is recommended to wait until the boric acid suppository is completely dissolved, as there is potential for your partner to ingest a small amount if not dissolved completely.  

Boric acid may break down the effectiveness of a condom, so again, it is recommended that the boric acid suppository is completely dissolved before having intercourse with a condom.

Boric acid suppositories will not prevent or treat any sexually transmitted disease, sexually transmitted infection, or pregnancy.

Recent research has shown that no serious side effects have been reported when boric acid solution is used as directed as a holistic vaginal suppository for vaginal odor. Do not take boric acid vaginal suppositories by mouth or insert a suppository if you have open wounds, ulcerations, or lacerations on the vulva, labia, or inside the vagina. Keep this item safely out of the reach of children. If swallowed, seek immediate medical attention.

pH-D Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories are the #1 doctor recommended brand of boric acid vaginal suppositories with over 10,000 clinics recommending pH-D Boric Acid Suppositories to their patients. Take on each day feeling your most confident and comfortable!

Do you have other pressing questions about boric acid vaginal suppositories? We would love to hear from you! You can reach us at info@phdfemininehealth. com.

As a result of an unsuccessful experiment in the museum, four children and one adult were injured

A flask exploded during an experiment with “cold fire” in the museum’s “Sphere” museum in the hands of a museum employee. Five children were hurt. A museum employee’s arm was torn off. Now he is in intensive care. A criminal case has been initiated under the article “violation of the rules for the use of explosives”.

On Wednesday in Moscow in the Museum of Science and Technology “Sphere”, located at Ivan Franko Street, 22, building 1, there was an explosion. The incident happened around 13.00 during the Meet the Robot tour. An employee of the museum demonstrated an experiment with “cold fire” to the children who came on an excursion.

For unknown reasons, a flask with chemicals exploded in the hands of an employee. Five children were with him at that moment (how many children took part in the excursion is unknown).

According to RIA Novosti, a museum employee’s arm was torn off during the explosion. All five children, according to news agencies, were also injured.

As Anatoly Kostin, deputy head of the Internal Affairs Directorate for ZAO Anatoly Kostin, told Gazeta.Ru, the 23-year-old museum employee who conducted the chemical experiment was the most injured in the explosion.

“He was taken to city hospital No. 71 with a serious injury,” Kostin said. “He is currently in intensive care.” According to Gazeta.Ru, the injured museum worker has a higher education in chemistry and biology, and worked for several years at the Polytechnic Museum. The Investigative Committee for Moscow reported that now the guide worked as a teacher of chemistry and biology.

Five injured children were also hospitalized. They were sent to the Morozov children’s hospital “to determine the severity of the injuries.”

The youngest of the hospitalized is six years old and lives in Moscow. The remaining four (they are between 10 and 12 years old) came to the museum from a recreation camp near Moscow. “In order to visit the exhibition, they contacted the museum via the Internet,” Kostin said.

Later, the Investigative Committee for Moscow reported that only four senior tourists were injured. According to the investigation, the boys – students of the “World of Knowledge” school – had cut wounds on their hands and heads.

According to law enforcement officers, the Sphere Museum is not a municipal institution, it is a private enterprise. “Currently, experts are working at the scene of the incident, who are establishing what substance was used in the experiment,” Kostin said. – It is established whether this person had the right to show experiments. We check the documents confirming the legitimacy of the organization of the museum.”

A criminal case has been initiated under Art. 218 of the Criminal Code (violation of the rules for the use of explosives), the investigation of which was transferred to the Main Investigation Department of the Investigative Committee for Moscow.

The museum refuses to comment.

According to the museum’s website, “as in a real laboratory, the Sphere Museum is supposed to experiment.” There are four exhibitions dedicated to robots, telephones, photographic equipment and microscopes. All exhibits are allowed to be touched. On the “Meet the Robot” excursion, where you can bring children from five years old, they talk about the principles of operation and design of robots. The site does not say anything about the experiments that are carried out during the tour.

“Cold fire” is a very common chemical experiment on the combustion of acid esters, which can be carried out even at home.

A “cold” flame is characterized by a slow burning rate, with heat being removed from the reaction sphere faster than is released during combustion. As a result, the average temperature for some types of “cold fire” does not exceed several tens of degrees Celsius (ordinary fire has a temperature of about 1000 degrees). The most common experiment of this kind is the combustion of boric acid ethyl ester. To do this, you need to mix alcohol and acid plus hydrochloric or sulfuric acid. This is how cold flames are produced. However, if for some reason there is too much alcohol in the system (for example, it was added in excess), then after the ether burns out, the alcohol itself will begin to burn. It is already burning with the usual “hot” fire with all the ensuing consequences.

Commissioner for Children’s Rights Pavel Astakhov has already stated that he instructed the capital’s Children’s Ombudsman Yevgeny Bunimovich “to take the matter under personal control and, if necessary, provide assistance to the victims.” The commissioner stated that it was not clear why safety measures were not observed during experiments with especially dangerous substances in the museum. “Children had to be provided with goggles and overalls. Astakhov noted. – Experiments should be carried out behind a partition so that fragments of flasks and poisonous substances cannot injure the audience. The safety of children must be an absolute priority. And all those who violate security measures must be held accountable.”

PERFECT BORONIC ACID | Science and life

Science and life // Illustrations

View full size

‹

›

There is an opinion that drugs that have been used for a long time cannot bring harm, since they are, as it were, evaluated and tested by life itself. But the infallibility of old medicines is a myth. An example of this is boric acid. From the end of the 19th century to the present day, it has been widely used in home medicine. Meanwhile, this outwardly harmless white powder sometimes causes severe poisoning in young children.

The beginning of the era of antiseptics in surgery is considered to be 1865, when the English surgeon Joseph Lister published an article in the Lancet magazine about a new method for treating surgical wounds using carbolic acid (colloquially known as carbolic acid). Carbolic was effective in killing germs, but had many drawbacks, the worst of which was its toxicity.

Shortly after this event, the French chemist Jean Baptiste Dumas discovered antiseptic properties in boric acid, which did not irritate wounds, did not stain linen, did not smell badly like carbolic acid, did not even have a taste. That is why many of the “home” and clinical antiseptics known at that time, like hydrogen peroxide, potassium permanganate and carbolic acid, were increasingly replaced by boric acid. As it turned out – in vain.

In the modern textbook on pharmacology by D. A. Kharkevich, about four lines are devoted to boric acid. Including this: “The antimicrobial activity of boric acid is low.”

Indeed: if boric acid, according to M. D. Mashkovsky, has an antimicrobial effect at a minimum concentration of 2%, then potassium permanganate is 0.1, ethacridine is 0.05, furacillin is 0.01, and chlorhexidine is only 0.005 %. Consequently, we have (and, in fact, have had for a long time) antiseptics that are 20-400 times more active than acid!

Lack of taste, odor and irritant effect gave boric acid the false reputation of a harmless substance. However, toxicologists have shown that the trace element boron belongs to the group of so-called general cell poisons. Only the high stability of boric acid in the human body makes it relatively harmless. But a small amount of boric acid is still split. In acute poisoning of people, it affects the brain, mucous membranes and skin, and in chronic poisoning, hematopoietic and germ cells. Boric acid is especially dangerous for developing embryos. Even the intake of a single non-toxic dose in the mother’s body can cause pathological changes in the fetus.

Due to low efficiency and high toxicity, boric acid eventually left hospital wards, where they don’t really care about the appearance, smell and taste of the drug – there would be an effect, and moved into the number of exclusively home remedies, the pleasantness of which is often valued higher their usefulness. In most home first aid kits, one can still find one or another medicinal or cosmetic product with boric acid: powders, an aqueous solution for washing eyes, an alcohol solution for instillation into the ears, boron ointment, boron vaseline, boron soap and even mineral water with boron. And many of them are for children…

The first description of the death of a child from boric acid poisoning, which I found in a medical journal, is dated 1881. In 1905, the first (scientific) review was published, which already described 22 deaths.

Paradoxically, but the spread of strict hygienic rules for child care contributed to the increase in poisoning. So, after the Second World War, every young mother purchased boric acid powder in a pharmacy. Then its use for regular treatment of the mucous membranes and skin of the child, as well as the mother’s nipples before feeding, was synonymous with high household culture.

The result was not long in coming. The Journal of Pediatrics (No. 6, 1953, Canada) published a report on 102 deaths caused by the use of boric acid. The British Medical Journal (No. 1, 1955) reported 120; “German Medical Journal” (vol. 87, 1962) – about 60, “French Journal of Therapy” (No. 3, 1980) – about 79 cases of death of children. Poisoning arose as a result of the most seemingly innocent actions of parents and doctors: wiping the mother’s nipples with an acid solution before feeding, sprinkling wet skin surfaces, and treating the oral mucosa.

Being a pediatrician by training and a pharmacologist by profession, the author of this article
participated in writing a guide for doctors “Poisoning in childhood”,
published in 1961, 1977 and 1999, which indicated the possibility of poisoning
children with boric acid. Then a textbook for students of pediatric faculties came out
– it lists drugs that are contraindicated in newborns. Among them –
boric acid. Nevertheless, its popularity among the population and children’s doctors
did not decrease at all. This prompted me to write the article “When adults
medicines are dangerous for children”, which was published in the journal “Science and Life”
(No. 5, 1983). The reaction was stormy. Many abusive letters came, reproaching
me in complete illiteracy, including even signed by the head of the Chief
medical care management.

Before I sat down to answer my respected boss, a fresh issue of the journal “Archive of Childhood Diseases” (No. 9, 1983, Great Britain) appeared on the shelves of libraries, almost entirely devoted to boric acid. R. Illingworth, a leading pediatrician in England, described a case of convulsions in an infant after using a solution of borax in glycerin to treat thrush.

In the same issue of the journal I was interested in the article by M. O’Sullivan “Chronic boric acid poisoning in infants”. Since the British Pediatric Association has not recommended the use of boric acid since 1966, according to the author, the number of childhood poisonings has decreased in recent years. Nevertheless, he advised always to check the presence of boric acid in the blood serum if the child has incomprehensible symptoms, when intestinal upset and inflammation of the brain are combined with fever and rash.

Such a case has also been described. One of the Dublin pharmacies produced a special sweet syrup for rinsing pacifiers with boric acid added as a preservative. Soon, 13 infants were brought to the hospital, one after the other, with vomiting and convulsions. It turned out that for 4-10 weeks, the children were given nipples rinsed in a new syrup. The content of boric acid in the serum of their blood at the time of admission to the hospital was more than 8 μg/ml, while the concentration of 80 μg/ml is fatal. A high concentration of boric acid in children was maintained for 10 weeks. Fortunately, all the children recovered.

The appearance of these articles made me, in the literal sense of the word, sound the alarm. To this I was told that not a single case of boric acid poisoning had been registered in our country. I argued that our children could not be so fundamentally different from other children. They objected to me: if there were no poisonings, then they are different. I became interested in how often the blood of children admitted with symptoms of severe poisoning is examined in hospitals for the content of boric acid in it. It turned out – almost never. This is the reason for the lack of cases of boric acid poisoning.

A lethal dose of boric acid for an adult is 5-20 grams. A large scatter is obtained due to the fact that the acid is excreted through the kidneys unchanged. They work well – poisoning is easily tolerated, badly – it is extremely difficult to save from it. Children have a relative underdevelopment of renal functions – this is a purely physiological pattern. And the younger the child, the more pronounced this underdevelopment. Hence it turns out that boric acid is the most dangerous for newborns, and with age, the risk of poisoning gradually decreases. Therefore, the use of boric acid for the treatment of newborns should be strictly prohibited. For infants, it can only be used in a hospital with mandatory monitoring of its content in the blood. It should be remembered that with diseased kidneys, boric acid should not be given to either children or adults. For children older than a year, it is possible to use boric acid in the form of solutions and ointments, but taking into account that the total dose, regardless of the duration of use, does not exceed two grams. For example, one drop of its 2% solution contains one milligram of the substance.