In Moscow, a mother mistakenly gave her daughter celandine tincture instead of vitamin D3
A resident of Moscow’s Khovrino district faced a frightening mishap when a bottle meant for liquid vitamin D3 was confused with a different remedy. In a case reported via a Telegram channel, a 43-year-old parent intended to administer vitamin D3 to her young child but inadvertently handed over a tincture of celandine instead. The error occurred as the parent prepared to care for her five-year-old, a mix-up that would soon have serious consequences.
Celandine tincture is a substance traditionally used externally for certain skin conditions, including dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema. Medical guidance, however, clearly states that the remedy is contraindicated for children under 12 years of age. The tincture’s intended use is topical; ingesting it can be dangerous, and even small amounts can trigger toxic reactions because the plant contains potent alkaloids that affect the nervous system and other organs. This knowledge underscores how crucial it is to store and label medications and home remedies separately and clearly to prevent accidental ingestion, especially by young children.
After the child drank the vitamin that was offered, she went to play, but soon began feeling unwell. The mother, alarmed by her child’s symptoms, contacted emergency services and health professionals. Medical evaluation led to a diagnosis of a toxic effect from corrosive substances, a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. The child was hospitalized for monitoring and treatment, and authorities report that her condition has since stabilized and her life is no longer in danger.
The incident in Moscow adds to a growing emphasis on medication safety at home, particularly regarding substances that look alike or are stored in similar packaging. Parents and caregivers are urged to double-check labels, keep potentially hazardous liquids out of reach of children, and use childproof storage where possible. In the aftermath, families are reminded that even common vitamins can be dangerous if misused or mistaken for something else, and that professional guidance should be sought immediately if accidental ingestion occurs. The situation serves as a stark reminder that everyday household items can pose real risks when proper precautions are not taken. Additional education and clear labeling can help reduce the chances of similar incidents in other households.
Earlier incidents in other cities have shown a similar pattern of accidental ingestion from mislabeled or misidentified containers. In one such case, a lollipop stick caused an ear injury when a child accidentally misused a candy item as part of a self-care routine. While unrelated in detail, these episodes collectively emphasize the importance of clear labeling, safe storage, and careful parental supervision to safeguard children from hazardous substances in domestic settings.