The medicine is used to relieve colic during teething in children under 12 months old but has now been recalled over the presence of a small amount of chloroform as an inactive ingredient.

Infants' Friend Pty Ltd, in consultation with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), has recently recalled all batches of Infants' Friend oral liquid due to the presence of chloroform as an inactive ingredient.

Infants' Friend oral liquid is a registered complementary medicine (AUST R 26678) used to relieve colic, during teething and to keep bowels regular.

It's labelled for use in infants from birth up to one year of age.

When used at high doses, Infants' Friend oral liquid can expose children to levels of chloroform that are higher than the level established to be safe. However, intermittent, short-term use is not expected to be harmful.

Consumers are advised to talk to their health professional with any concerns.

IN OTHER NEWS:

At high doses and/or following long-term use, chloroform is known to cause damage to the liver, kidneys and nervous system. The established safe level of intake for chloroform is based on studies in animals and include wide safety margins.

Infants' Friend oral liquid is a 'grandfathered' medicine, which means that it was available in Australia prior to 1990.

If you give Infants' Friend oral liquid to your child it is recommended that you stop using it. If you have any Infants' Friend oral liquid, the remaining product can be returned to the place of purchase for a refund.

If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, talk to your health professional or contact Infants' Friend Pty Ltd customer service on 1800 981 403.