What Is 'Werewolf Syndrome?' 17 Babies and Kids Are Growing Hair All Over Their Bodies Due to Medical Mix-Up

Parents were given acid reflux medication for their kids that turned out to be for treating hair loss.
More than a dozen young children grew hair all over their body in what Spain’s health ministry is calling “werewolf syndrome.”
But parents don’t need to look to lunar cycles or superstitions to find out what happened. Officials say the bizarre condition can be attributed to a mix-up in medicine.
Health Minister Maria Luisa Carcedo said earlier this week that the 17 children – some still infants – in Cantabria, Andalusia and Valencia affected by “werewolf syndrome” were given medication believed to be omeprazole, which helps with acid reflux.
Instead, authorities discovered the medication instead contained minoxidil, which is used for hair loss.
The 17 kids have now developed a rare condition known as hypertrichosis, or an abnormal amount of hair growth all over the body.
Officials at FarmaQuimica Sur discovered the mistake in June.
The children should see symptoms stop as soon as they cease taking the medication, the ministry said.
The Andalusia Health Department said the three babies and a 7-year-old in their area affected by the medication have since recovered and are doing well.
RELATED STORIES
Trending on Inside Edition

Ultramarathoner Attacked by Coyote While on 150-Mile Run Speaks About Terrifying Ordeal, How He Fought It Off
Animals
Navy Wife Takes Effort to Free Husband From Japan Jail to White House
News
Florida Handyman Gets 3 Life Terms for Killing Woman Like a 'Second Mother' to Him, Hiding Body in Septic Tank
Crime
Daughter Posts Note From Her Dad, Found By Her Family 9 Years After He Died, That Says 'Do Not Be Afraid'
Inspirational
Producers of Alabama Rush Documentary Deny Rumors of Sorority Recruits With Hidden Microphones
Human Interest