Gripe Water

The active ingredient in gripe water differs between products due to different formulations. The active ingredients in gripe water may be fennel, sodium bicarbonate, chamomile, ginger, probiotics, and lemon balm. They all typically have a sweet taste due to added sugar or sweeteners, and some gripe water may contain alcohol, which is dangerous for infants. Gripe water likely works anecdotally because of the sweet taste, which may relieve pain in the baby’s stomach, baby gas, and help with burping. This, in turn, may also help fussy babies and colicky babies.

Other solutions to manage colic include swaddling the baby, breastfeeding, soothing sounds, and less stimulation. Other medications may have a lower risk, such as gas drops. Ask your pediatrician for advice.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using gripe water. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of gripe water:

• Always consult with your pediatrician before using gripe water. Follow the directions of your specific product or as recommended by your pediatrician.
• For accurate gripe water administration, use a syringe to measure the correct volume.
• Generally, it’s recommended that babies 4 months old or younger drink only breast milk or formula. Gripe water should never be used for babies younger than 1 month of age (4 weeks old).
• Gripe water products may contain alcohol, sugar, gluten, dairy products, parabens, preservatives, and glycerin.

The most common side effects of gripe water include:

• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.
• Vomiting.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using gripe water. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reaction. Symptoms include trouble breathing, rash, or swelling of the face, lips, and tongue.
• Metabolic alkalosis. This risk is for products that may contain sodium bicarbonate.
• Overdose. Symptoms include confusion, headache, fussiness, fever, and convulsions.

These are not all of the possible side effects of gripe water. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting gripe water, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Gripe water may contain high amounts of alcohol. This may be harmful to your baby.
• Allergic reactions to medications, dietary supplements.
• Multiple gripe water products have been recalled due to microbial contamination, undissolved ingredients leading to choking risks, and contamination with harmful metals like lead.

• Allergic reactions to a gripe water product or other natural health products.
• The baby is less than 1 month old.

Gripe water has been reported to start working within 30 minutes. It’s important to note that this is anecdotal and there is limited scientific evidence to support gripe water working to treat colic.

When gripe water is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Antacids.

Doses of gripe water differ between products. Always consult with a pediatrician before using gripe water and follow the directions of your specific product.

Store gripe water at room temperature, keep away from children and pets.

Gripe water is manufactured by multiple pharmaceutical companies.

Gripe water is the generic version. Brand-name gripe water products also exist, such as Mommy’s Bliss Gripe Water.

There are no withdrawal symptoms associated with gripe water. Consult your pediatrician before starting or stopping any medication or dietary supplement.

Gripe water is commonly used for pediatric use. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Gripe water is commonly used for pediatric use. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.