Contamination of Bindeez beads

Last updated: 06 November 2007

What is the problem with Bindeez beads?

It appears that a toxic chemical has been used in these beads in place of one that is safe. When swallowed this chemical is changed to GHB in the body.

What is GHB?

GHB (gamma hydroxy butyrate) is a potent sedative and anaesthetic.

What are the signs that a child is affected by GHB?

The signs will vary according to the number of beads swallowed.

A child mildly affected may be slightly drowsy or disinhibited. With higher doses children may develop nausea and vomiting, dizziness, slurred speech, become very sleepy or have an epileptic fit.

All symptoms should resolve over several hours.

What should I do if my child is showing affects of GHB?

For children that are mildly affected visit your GP or local hospital. If the more severe signs develop call an ambulance.

Parents should not induce vomiting.

What if a child has been playing with Bindeez beads?

Parents should remove the beads from children and place them out of reach. Children who haven't swallowed any beads and who are not showing signs of drowsiness or nausea are not likely to be affected. These children can be watched at home - if no symptoms develop within one hour it is unlikely that they have been affected.

Just touching the beads or the mosaic is not thought to cause any health effects.

What should you do with Bindeez beads?

Bindeez beads should be removed from and kept out of the reach of children. Parents should return the product to the distributor as soon as possible, following the instructions on their website or telephoning Moose Enterprises on 1800 303 895.