Everything You Need to Know About Colic Medications for Babies

Play Article

Introduction

What can be more stressful and heart-breaking than having to listen to your baby’s inconsolable crying? Colic leads to such crying for long stretches. However, as there are different, effective colic medications for babies available, this issue can be nipped in the bud successfully. It is understandable that a parent might get confused with the many types of colic medications available. So, next everything that you need to know to make the right and accurate decision has been mentioned.

It can feel like the only thing that will help is a magic wand. But unfortunately, there’s no such thing (yet). Luckily, there are some colic medications that can provide relief for you and your baby. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the most popular colic medications and their side effects.

Is Colic contagious

Colic is not contagious, but it can be frustrating for parents when their baby is inconsolable. There are many over-the-counter medications that claim to provide relief for colic, but not all of them are effective. Some of the most popular colic medications include antihistamines, antacids, and antispasmodics. These medications can have side effects if they are not used properly, so it is important to consult with a pediatrician before giving any medication to a colicky baby.

Should you consider colic medication? Which one is the better option: OTC or Herbal?

As per some theories, the different causes for colic in babies are:

• Muscle spasm in the growing digestive system.
• Excitement, frustration, or fear.
• Gas
• Irritation caused by the developing nervous system.
• Certain hormone production causing crankiness or belly pain.
• Sensitivity to noise, light, and other such stimulation.
• Early signs of migraine.

Unfortunately, there is no one treatment as a clear cause of colic is yet to be determined. You have to take into consideration the above-mentioned causes and find relief based on it.

Yes, there some caring and handling tips for colicky baby. Still, your best option to provide effectual relief will be by administrating colic medications for babies . Such medications have been clinically proven to provide relief to colicky baby.

Both OTC (Over-The-Counter) medication and herbal remedies can be applied to provide the needed relief. Many parents, to minimize the intake of chemicals and medications for their baby, choose herbal remedies in form of commercially produced mixtures or tea made with ingredients like Careway, Chamomile, California Poppy, Peppermint, Fennel, and such other.

However, for a quicker and prolonged relief and result, consider only the popular colic OTC medications available. Next, some of them have been mentioned for you. So, do read on to find out more.

Popular colic medications for babies to try

As per different studies and researches, some OTC colic medications have anecdotal evidence supporting what they are promise to offer. Many different pharmaceutical companies came out with medications for colicky babies. However, some of them are known for having mild to severe side effects. Next, the OTC colic medications that are regarded safe by many parents and expert doctors/pediatricians are as follows:

Antihistamines

Recommended medications like Brompheniramine, Dimenthdrinate, Diphenhydramine, and Promethazine contain antihistamines. They are designed to provide relief from inflamed, red eyes and discomfort caused by nasal congestion. They restrict the production of histamine (responsible for allergic symptoms). They have sedating (tranqulizing) effect helping the baby to be less irritated or excited. So, the baby will cry less and sleep more. Some common side effects for improper dosage are diarrhea or constipation, dry mouth confusion, and more.

• Antacids

When the cause of colic in the infant is considered as heartburn, associated with gastro-esophageal reflux, then this sort of easily available OTC medication is provided for colic related issues. The purpose of this kind of medication is restricting or neutralizing the production of stomach acid. This ensures the esophagus is functioning properly and gets healed if required. Wrong dosage of antacids can lead to headaches, loss of appetite, diarrhea or constipation, and more.

• Antispasmodics

Hyoscyamine and Dicyclomine are considered as two most popular types of antispasmodic medications available currently. They target the wall of the intestines and urinary bladder and relax the muscles present. They can reduce intestinal spasms by blocking nerve impulses from the spinal cord and brain to the wall of the intestine. When a baby is dealing with overactive gastro-colic reflex, this type of medication is recommended. Some side effects for incorrect dosage of such medications are dilated pupils, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and more.

• Anti-gas

The recommended anti-gas medication that can be provided to a colicky baby is Simethicone. Medicines contain it will be able to reduce the amount of gas present in your baby’s stomach. It will disperse the foam known for forming when air is swallowed during feeding. It allows the body to release the gas formed inside by burping. Simethicone was proven to be safe for infants as there are rarely any side effects. It is non-sedating in composition as well.

To conclude

Hopefully, now you know how the best colic medications for babies can provide quick and effective relief. Do you research well and choose one from the above-mentioned list that you determine to be the best choice for you and your baby. Here it is important to state that – Do not provide any sort of medications to your baby without consulting the pediatrician first!