Reactions to Gripe Water

History

• Used to relieve discomfort caused by colic, teething pain, hiccups and gas in babies, gripe water was created in England in 1851. Gripe water soon became popular throughout Europe and then the United States as word spread about it's effectiveness in soothing fussy babies. In 1982 the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered the seizure of shipments of gripe water due to it being considered an unapproved drug. As of 2009, many brands of gripe water are legally sold as dietary supplements in the U.S., while some formulas are considered homeopathic medications regulated by the FDA.

Function

• While ingredients vary by brand, gripe water generally consists of sterilized water and a blend of herbs, such as peppermint, fennel, ginger, lemon balm and chamomile. All of these herbs have been used alone and together for centuries to help with stomach upset. Since babies are born with an immature digestive system, they often suffer from gas, bloating and stomach discomfort. The calming active ingredients in gripe water are believed to settle acid in the stomach, ease spasms in the digestive tract and absorb excess gas.

Adverse Reactions

• Gripe water generally carries little risk of adverse reactions or side effects. The most troubling ingredient, alcohol, has been removed from most brands sold in the U.S. Still, be sure to check the ingredient label to be sure. Another concern about gripe water is that some include sodium bicarbonate. In a large enough quantity, sodium bicarbonate can change the pH balance of the stomach acid and actually worsen symptoms. It can also interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron and folic acid.

Alternatives

• If you find that one brand of gripe water doesn't work, look at the ingredients and try another that has different ingredients. There are alternatives to gripe water that might help your baby. If your baby is on formula, switching to one of the hypoallergenic formulas specially made to help ease colic might prove helpful. You can also try gas drops, such as Mylicon, and gentle abdominal massage. Speak to your pediatrician before changing formula.

Warning

• According to the Food and Drug Administration, in 2007 an infant became very ill after being given a brand of gripe water found to contain the parasite Cryptosporidium. Due to this illness, the FDA recalled Baby's Bliss gripe water and parents were advised to be aware of symptoms such as watery diarrhea, dehydration, weight loss, stomach cramps or pain, fever, nausea and vomiting. While this condition is unusual, if you notice these or other reactions in your baby, contact your pediatrician right away.