WASHINGTON — Federal health officials warned parents Wednesday about the dangers of teething remedies that contain a popular numbing ingredient and asked manufacturers to stop selling their products intended for babies and toddlers.

The Food and Drug Administration said that various gels and creams containing the drug benzocaine can cause rare but deadly side effects in children, especially those 2 years and younger.

The agency has been warning about the products for a decade. Now, it wants teething products off the market, noting there is little evidence they actually work.

The FDA said it will take legal action against companies that don’t voluntarily remove products for young children. Manufacturers are expected to comply as soon as possible.

Benzocaine is also used in popular over-the-counter products for toothaches and cold sores in adults, including Orajel and Anbesol and generic drugstore brands. Products for adults can remain on the market but the FDA wants new warnings.

Benzocaine can cause a rare blood condition linked to potentially deadly breathing problems.

ASSOCIATED PRESS