Infant gas is common, often causing discomfort due to developing digestive systems and swallowed air. Many parents consider gas drops to alleviate their baby’s distress.
How Gas Drops Work
Gas drops typically contain simethicone, an antifoaming agent. Simethicone physically alters the surface tension of gas bubbles in the baby’s digestive tract, causing small, trapped bubbles to combine into larger ones. These larger bubbles are then easier for the baby to pass through burping or flatulence.
Simethicone works physically and is not absorbed into the baby’s bloodstream or digestive system. It acts locally within the gastrointestinal tract and is excreted unchanged. While it relieves discomfort from existing trapped gas, it does not prevent gas formation.
Using Gas Drops Safely and Effectively
When administering gas drops, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or a pediatrician’s guidance precisely. The medication usually comes with a special dropper for accurate measurement, and the dose can often be mixed with a small amount of cool water, infant formula, or other suitable liquids to make administration easier. Doses are typically given after meals and at bedtime as needed, with a common pediatric dose for infants under two years being 20 mg, not exceeding 240 mg per day.
Simethicone is generally considered safe for infants, including newborns, due to its non-absorbable nature and minimal side effects. While it is well-tolerated, rare instances of loose stools have been reported. Parents should understand that individual responses to gas drops can vary, and they may not provide complete relief for every baby or every type of gas.
Parents should consult a healthcare professional if a baby exhibits severe or persistent fussiness, vomiting, poor feeding, bloody stools, or fever. These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue beyond typical infant gas. It is always best to seek medical advice to rule out other conditions and ensure appropriate care.
Alternatives for Infant Gas Relief
Beyond gas drops, several non-medicinal strategies can help soothe infant gas discomfort. Optimizing feeding techniques can minimize swallowed air, such as ensuring a proper latch during breastfeeding or using bottles with appropriate nipple flow to reduce air intake. Frequent burping during and after feedings also helps release trapped air before it moves further into the digestive system.
Physical interventions can also provide relief. Gentle tummy massage, often performed in a clockwise direction or by tracing “I-L-U” on the baby’s abdomen, can encourage gas movement. Performing “bicycle legs” by gently moving the baby’s legs towards their chest can also help dislodge gas. Supervised tummy time allows pressure on the abdomen, which can aid in expelling gas.
For breastfeeding mothers, certain foods in their diet, such as dairy or cruciferous vegetables, are sometimes linked to gas in their babies. Consulting a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes is advisable. For formula-fed infants, discussing different formula types with a pediatrician may be beneficial if gas is a persistent concern.