An infant's digestive system is still maturing and getting used to breaking down breastmilk or formula after spending almost a year in the womb receiving nutrition from the mother. This can lead to gas that makes a baby uncomfortable. Gas drops made specifically for an infant are meant to alleviate the gas. DrGreene.com states that studies on the efficacy of infant gas drops reveal both positive and negative results, but many mothers find them useful.
Function
Gas drops typically contain the active ingredient simethicone. Drugs.com explains that this medicine is an antiflatulent that breaks up gas bubbles, making it easier for the baby to pass. An infant can develop gas from swallowing air when feeding from a bottle or the mother's breast. This air can be expelled by burping or by flatulence. When it is trapped in the intestines, it can cause the baby discomfort. The infant may refuse to continue feeding when gas builds up or she may cry, tighten her body or bring her knees to her chest from the pain. Babies who have gas frequently are sometimes called colicky.
Using Gas Drops
Infants can be given gas drops after meals or at bedtime depending on when the discomfort is most common. Drugs.com states that the drops come with a dispenser that should be filled with the medication to the recommended dose level depending on the age and weight of the baby. The dispenser is then inserted into the infant's mouth against the inner cheek. An alternative method of administering the medication is to mix the dose with 1 oz. of cool water, infant formula, breast milk or juice. The dispenser should be cleansed with hot water after every use. To obtain the maximum benefits, Drugs.com suggests giving doses regularly.
Results
MedlinePlus explains that the drops are mild and are not absorbed by the body, making them safe to try even if the desired results are not achieved. When compared to a placebo, the gas drops were not shown to be any more effective, according to Drugs.com. This suggests that the drops may not have a significant impact on gas in infants.
Side Effects
Gas drops have no common side effects when used properly. It is always best to contact a health care professional before using gas drops in an infant. Parents should also follow the dose recommendations to reduce the risk of side effects. Drugs.com states that in rare cases, infants may have a severe allergic reaction to the medicine. Signs of this include rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest and swelling of the tissues of the face.
Considerations
When gas drops do not work or to reduce the need to use the gas drops, parents have several other options for relieving gas discomfort in an infant. DrGreen.com explains that gas peaks between the third and sixth week of an infant's life. Crying can lead to swallowing more air, making the situation worse. Babies who are being breastfed can develop gas due to certain foods in the mother's diet. To identify the source, a mother can keep a food log and monitor when the gas symptoms are at their peak. Some common sources include caffeine, spicy foods, strong seasoning and dairy products. Babies who are being fed formula may develop stomach discomfort, including gas. If the gas is moderate or persistent, a pediatrician can recommend other formulas for the infant to try.
