Newborns often experience gas discomfort, leading to fussiness and crying. This common issue prompts many parents to seek remedies, with gas drops frequently considered. Understanding how these products work, their safety, and effectiveness is important.
Understanding How Gas Drops Work and Their Safety
Gas drops typically contain simethicone. This active ingredient alters the surface tension of gas bubbles within the gastrointestinal tract, causing smaller bubbles to coalesce into larger ones. This makes them easier for the baby to pass through burping or flatulence. Simethicone does not prevent gas formation and is not absorbed into the baby’s bloodstream.
Simethicone’s non-absorption is why it is generally recognized as safe for infants. It acts locally within the gut and is excreted unchanged in the feces. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved simethicone in 1952.
Over-the-counter infant gas drops commonly contain simethicone at 20 mg per 0.3 mL. Dosing for infants under two years is typically 20 mg up to four times daily as needed, with a maximum daily dose of 240 mg. Some formulations may contain inactive ingredients like sodium benzoate, generally in safe quantities for infants.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Gas Drops
While gas drops are widely used, scientific studies on their effectiveness in alleviating newborn gas symptoms have yielded mixed or limited results. Research indicates that for infantile colic, simethicone may be no more effective than a placebo. The American Academy of Pediatrics states there is no definitive evidence that infant gas drops consistently provide significant relief.
The mechanism of action, breaking down gas bubbles, does not always translate to a consistent reduction in crying or discomfort. Individual responses to gas drops can vary, with some parents reporting perceived improvements. However, clinical trials do not universally observe subjective relief for the infant.
Alternative Approaches to Soothe Newborn Gas
Several non-medicinal strategies can help soothe a newborn experiencing gas discomfort. Effective burping techniques during and after feedings are crucial. These include holding the baby over your shoulder, sitting them on your lap, or lying them across your lap while gently patting their back. Adjusting feeding positions can also reduce swallowed air; keeping the baby’s head higher than their stomach during feeding, or using slower-flow nipples for bottle-fed infants, can be beneficial.
Gentle physical activities can also aid in gas relief. Parents can try these methods individually or in combination to find what best suits their baby:
- Supervised tummy time provides abdominal pressure that helps release trapped gas.
- Gently moving the baby’s legs in a “bicycle” motion can encourage gas to pass.
- A warm bath can relax abdominal muscles, easing gas passage.
- Gentle clockwise massage on the baby’s tummy can also provide comfort and encourage gas movement.