Medicines for colic in the tummy for newborns: a review of drugs

Most new parents are afraid of colic in newborns. If a child begins to cry for no apparent reason, draws his legs, calms down from warm compresses placed on the abdomen, this is how he informs his parents about his needs. The task of parents is to help the baby and remember that this is a completely normal process, which, starting from 2-3 weeks of age, takes place by 3-4 months. 89% of babies are faced with similar phenomena for one reason or another. In this article, we will look at popular tummy colic medicines for newborns.

What are colic medications?

There is an opinion that a nursing mother who follows a diet helps to establish the digestion process in the gastrointestinal tract of a newborn. However, the relationship between nutrition and the composition of breast milk has not been proven. Intestinal immaturity and enzyme deficiency are natural for an infant and the only way is to wait it out. difficult period, if necessary using special drugs for prevention and treatment colic. The first group includes drugs that reduce gas formation. The active elements here, as a rule, are extracts of anise, fennel, dill. The second group of drugs eliminates colic and relieves intestinal spasm. The basis for the splitting of "gases" into small bubbles is Simethicone. Due to this, discomfort is reduced and eliminated.

It is better for young parents to have medicines for both cases in the medicine cabinet. Some will be used to prevent colic. Others will help relieve the condition of the baby in case of severe pain.

Preventive measures - what to do

"Plantex" - a modern interpretation of the well-known means

The composition combines fennel essential oil and dry aqueous extract. Since ancient times, this plant is famous for its carminative properties, the ability to enhance intestinal motility and increase secretion in the stomach. In this respect, the action is similar to anise and dill. Gas is relieved, the intestines relax and the pain goes away, bringing relief to the newborn.

It is made in the form of granules and is intended for solution preparation. To do this, you will need half a glass of warm boiled water and 1 sachet of a 5-gram granular composition (Plantex is sold individually and in packages of several sachets - 10, 30). So that the newborn can drink the medicine intended for him, the liquid is divided into several doses and gradually given between feedings. During the day, you can give your child 1-2 sachets of liquid to drink. The recommended dose for children under one year old is 100 ml. ready-made solution.

Breastfeeding mothers should be given liquid from a syringe or soft spoon, not a bottle. Not every baby who is breastfed will take such a “treat” well, displacing a portion. mother's milk, therefore, when introducing a medicinal liquid, it is necessary to correlate the visible benefits and discomfort from use solution. Especially careful should be those mothers who have difficulties with the volume of breast milk and the establishment of feeding.

It is also necessary to remember about the possible allergy to the extract or fruits of fennel and any excipients contained in the preparation. The list of contraindications includes impaired glucose absorption mechanisms, lactase deficiency.

How effective the drug is for a particular child can only be understood empirically. It is likely that fennel itself is the substance that can relieve colic, but will help in the form of a suspension or drops. You can purchase several sachets of the drug to see the practical benefits of the drug.

To help a baby, a nursing mother should not drink Plantex - the effect of the components will be too weak for a visible effect.

Fennel and dill will help relieve pain

Sometimes in the pharmacy you can see not only bags with synthetic granules, but also natural children's dill or fennel tea. Dill water also belongs to the group of natural herbal remedies.

Tea bags should be brewed with boiling water and allowed to brew. The broth is offered to the child in small portions to relieve colic and prevent the corresponding symptoms.

As for dill water, the pharmaceutical remedy has nothing to do with dill and is made from fennel, like similar drugs designed to fight colic. It is a solution of fennel oil at a concentration of 0.1% and is sold in the prescription departments of pharmacies.

Dosage

You should start taking with a teaspoon before meals. Observing the baby's reaction, gradually increase the dose up to 3-6 times a day. In some cases, the digestive processes are stabilized for up to six months and during this period the dosage is selected individually.

If your baby refuses to take dill water, you can try adding it to expressed milk or an artificial feeding formula. So her taste will become more familiar and, perhaps, it will be possible to give the baby a medicinal solution.

How to cook at home

A recipe for self-preparation of a healing solution from fennel, which is available to every young mother and is a worthy alternative to pharmacy products.

Based on a glass of boiling water, you will need 2 grams of seeds (they can be purchased in the spice and seasoning departments). They must first be grinded in a blender or coffee grinder. You cannot cook fennel, otherwise all the beneficial properties will be lost. The raw materials should be insisted in boiling water, then strain. An infant up to a month should be given only fresh infusion of fennel for colic (shelf life - a day). Homemade dill water is dripped onto the tongue - 15 drops of liquid can be offered from two weeks at a time.

An alternative to this recipe is to dissolve fennel essential oil in water. To do this, you need to purchase high-quality raw materials and strictly observe the proportions - 0.05 g per 1 liter. essential oily liquid. The resulting composition is stored in the cold for no more than 30 days and heated to a comfortable temperature before use.

If fennel cannot be purchased, a similar composition will be obtained from dill seeds. The proportions are the same. Dill greens can be used as a basis for medicinal herbal tea - put a tablespoon of finely chopped raw materials in half a glass of boiling water and leave to stand for about an hour. Then cool, strain and give to the baby.

When using homemade recipes, there are a few rules to follow:

• use only specially prepared and purified water;
• rinse the cooking utensils with boiling water.

The effect of the drug

Many mothers worry that the child will refuse to drink dill water (pharmacy or homemade), but these fears are not justified. Most toddlers have a good taste of the drink. You also need to remember about the possible laxative effect that is characteristic of this drug. If the stool becomes more frequent, the dosage should be reduced and the attending pediatrician should be consulted about the appropriateness and possibility of taking it. Do not postpone the examination in the hospital if you have constipation, diarrhea, bloating, or lack of appetite.

Expansion of blood vessels should not lead to drowsiness, weakness, vomiting, short-term loss of consciousness. If you experience such reactions to fennel or dill oil, you should contact your pediatrician. Also, individual intolerance to the components of drugs for colic is possible in children prone to allergies and having problems with bile outflow.

Baby Calm - Natural and Safe

Like the above remedies for colic, Israeli-made drops are made from natural ingredients. Basically, it is a blend of oils designed to reduce bloating and normalize the flow of gas. "Baby Calm" contains anise, dill, mint, the action of which enhances and complements each other:

1. Anise relieves spasm by stimulating intestinal activity.
2. Dill also has a carminative effect, relieves abdominal pain, and relieves inflammation.
3. Peppermint soothes and relaxes the baby's nervous system.

For ease of use, the oily liquid is produced in a glass bottle with a special dispenser. The sensitivity to the components depends on the individual child, therefore, the rate of action of the drug from colic may differ. Purified water is used to dilute oils and prepare an emulsion. Its temperature should not be high. Water is poured to the mark and act according to the instructions - give the child 10 drops of the medicinal solution before feeding, adding to milk, artificial mixture, or directly dripping into the mouth.

Drug overdose is not possible. We can only talk about allergic reactions to herbal ingredients. In the composition of "Baby Calm" there is a certain amount of alcohol, therefore, its long-term use is undesirable, despite the manufacturer's assurances about the absence of side effects and a small ratio of substance to oil mixtures.

"Bebinos"

This preparation contains fennel, coriander and chamomile. This is a combined remedy, the indications for which are colic, stomach disorders, digestive problems. Available as drops.

Chamomile extract is indispensable for inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract, the presence of pathogenic intestinal flora, relieves spasms, combats allergies, stimulates the production of digestive juices necessary for the correct functioning of all organs.

Fennel, as mentioned above, eliminates bloating, activates the digestion process, normalizing the state of the intestines.

Coriander, in addition to carminative, also has a choleretic effect.

If the baby is too sensitive to the components of the drops, including sorbitol and alcohol, use "Babyinos" with caution and consult a pediatrician. Chamomile in the composition prevents allergies, so side effects are extremely rare.

For children under one year old, 3-6 drops should be dissolved in 30 mg. water - this dose should be repeated three times a day. First, you need to shake the bottle with drops to get rid of possible sediment.

The product is easy to store and use - the bottle has a convenient dispenser.

Like all natural remedies, "Bebinos" does not have the expected exposure time, it is characterized by an individual reaction and the speed of the onset of the therapeutic effect.

Synthetic ingredients will help with colic

Using the generic component Simethicone, drug manufacturers offer a range of proprietary formulations to choose from.

Simethicone acts as an antifoam agent, eliminating gases in the intestinal environment surrounded by mucus. Due to this, the gas is released and then either absorbed or leaves the body naturally. It is characteristic of this component that it does not affect the work of the gastrointestinal tract and comes out unchanged from feces, does not cause addiction, does not affect the microflora and begins to act in 10-15 minutes.

According to parents, drugs based on Simethicone begin to have a positive effect on colic much earlier. On average, improvement occurs within 5-10 minutes.

"Bobotik"

Opaque, white-cream drops are available in glass bottles with a dispensing stopper. The emulsion has a pleasant fruity aroma and taste. The composition may precipitate, therefore, before use, shake the bottle until a homogeneous suspension is obtained. Does not contain sugar.

The medicine is not suitable for newborns. It is used from about one month of age.

The dosage is presented in the following tables.

Table 1. Common application

Age	Dosage	Appointments per day
From 1 month to 2 years	8 drops	4 times a day
2-6 years old	14 drops
Over 6 years old	16 drops

Table 2. Application before examination (the day before the diagnosis)

Age	Dosage	Appointments per day
From 1 month to 2 years	10 drops	2 doses per day
2-6 years old	16 drops
From 6 years old	20 drops

If the child has obstruction, obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract, the drug should not be used. Also, the list of contraindications includes individual hypersensitivity to the components typical for such drugs. You should not exceed the dosage, despite the fact that the main component cannot harm and the manufacturer does not announce such cases in the annotation.

"Sub simplex"

Simethicone as part of "Sub Simplex" acts in a completely similar way. Before giving drops to the baby, shake the bottle and turn it upside down with a pipette. When measuring out the right number of drops, you need to remember the dosage. Up to a year give 15 drops per dose. The number of applications per day - from 2 (in the morning or afternoon during feeding and before bedtime) to 8. With artificial feeding, the medicine is added to the bottle, you can dilute the dose in breast milk, water, dosing with a spoon or syringe before applying.

In infants, portions can be stretched over several feedings - provided that they are fed not according to the regimen, but on demand, with frequent attachments.

Contraindications are similar (see. Bobotik).

"Espumisan"

This series of drugs is approved for use from birth. They do not contain lactose and can be used for a long time. Espumisan L has a measuring cap, Espumisan 40 is dosed with a special spoon. Newborns can be given Espumisan up to 3 times a day (before, after feeding, during an attack). First, the bottle must be shaken up, achieving an even distribution of the components. 1 dose - 25 drops of the drug. "Espumisan L" is used in children from 1 day of age - this is its main advantage over similar ones.

Making a choice

If we compare "Espumisan" and "Sub Simplex", then the concentration of the active substance per 1 ml. liquids are higher in the second remedy. It is not always realistic to offer a teaspoon of Espumisan to an infant suffering from colic. It ends faster with the same volume of vials. The compositions of the drug "Bobotik" and "Sub Simplex" are approximately similar to each other. "Bobotik" is preferable in terms of price. However, "Bobotik" has limitations in the number of receptions. Sub Simplex can be given more frequently and supplemented with each feed.

It is possible to combine the use of medicines based on simethicone with a dose of herbal medicines. In particular, “Baby Calm” may be suitable for a restless baby as a carminative, pain reliever for colic, which additionally has a sedative effect.

If a young mother is confused by the chemical origin of the active component simethicone, you can limit yourself natural formulations for colic, which, among other things, are more affordable for the family budget. But there are also disadvantages - large volumes of liquid that need to be taken in comparison with the same "Espumisan", the effect is mainly on the causes, and not the consequences of tension in the intestines. In terms of the speed of action, natural remedies are also inferior to synthetic ones. If colic occurs at regular intervals, it is better to have drugs from both groups on hand (therapeutic, prophylactic).

The general recommendation for all formulations is to give 1-2 drops of a liquid substance at the first application to exclude allergies. This applies to both natural and chemical drugs (the latter include flavoring agents).

It is difficult to say which medicine will become the parent's "magic wand". The specific effect is observed in practice and depends not only on the category of the drug, but also on the duration and intensity of use. Enumeration of drugs helps to find the optimal remedy for the crumbs, helping to cope with colic.

Video - Colic in newborns and infants. How can I help my child?

And if it is dysbiosis?

Sometimes there is anxiety due to disturbances in the intestinal flora. In this case, the newborn may need probiotics (for this age category - powder or liquid).

Drops "BioGaya" give from the first day, they are effective for colic accompanied by constipation. Designed for babies on artificial nutrition, not suffering from impaired renal and pancreatic functions. Usually, a newborn is prescribed 5 drops once a day.

As part of a probiotic "Bifiform Baby" - thermophilic streptococci, bifidobacteria. The drug is dispensed without a prescription and has somewhat vague indications for use. The suspension is easy to use. In a daily dose - 0.5 g. active ingredients.

"Prema Kids" used in the amount of 5 drops per day, once. For ease of use, it can be mixed with any liquid. The over-the-counter probiotic includes bidiphobacteria and lactobacilli, which are designed to populate your baby's intestines with beneficial microorganisms.

Probiotic sachet "Lactomun" the dosage is approximate - for oral administration, half a sachet is measured by eye, the contents of which are dissolved in 100 ml. liquids. The composition is almost identical to the previous probiotic and can also be purchased over the counter without a prescription.

"Simbiter acidophilic" for newborns is known for a wide range of effects on the body. Dilute it in water or milk (the volume of liquid is approximately equal to 2 tbsp. spoons). Temperature is strictly room temperature.

This dose is intended for a single use, but it should be understood that not every child (especially a baby) is able to drink this amount of liquid. This also applies to the above-mentioned "Lactomune". You should take this fact into account and consult your doctor.

Convenient drip form for probiotic supplement "Liveo Kid". To achieve the effect, take 15 drops once a day. The course is designed for 7 days. There is no clear information about the age in the annotation, but in general there is no prohibition on the use in newborns of the first year of life. A prescription, as with other drugs, is not required.

"Hilak Forte" treats dysbiosis of newborns from the first days. This solution contains the waste products of beneficial bacteria, it is "alive" and is stored for 6 weeks after opening the bottle. Equipped with a convenient dispenser. Lactic acid in the composition of the substance inhibits pathogenic flora and creates a comfortable environment for the reproduction of beneficial microorganisms. Fatty acids have a healing effect on the intestinal wall. The dosage is 15-30 drops (for a group of newborns).

Before use, the composition is diluted in non-carbonated water with glucose to kill the bitterness (for who are bottle-fed, the same recommendation applies, use the mixture for this it is forbidden!). Pediatricians recommend limiting the volume to 20 drops of probiotic for children under one year old.

Among other drugs that can affect the investment of digestion processes, one can single out: Biovestin, Linex, Bifidum-multi, classic Bifidumbacterin. Pharmacies also sell fermented milk starter culture "Narine", which can be taken by children from 5-10 days of age.

Biovestin

This group of probiotics is grown in milk and tastes good, which is a plus when treating a newborn. It is produced in liquid form - it is not only convenient, but also has a positive effect on the result of treatment. Bacteria in liquid form are more active and begin to "work" immediately after application, creating a favorable environment in the intestine, actively suppressing the growth of pathogenic flora.

The probiotic is given directly from birth in the amount of 5 drops per 1 dose. Up to a month, 2-fold reception is enough.

"Bifidumbacterin"

The dietary supplement is suitable for newborns in any form, except for tablets. Lactose, sugar and gelatin are part of the drug, which is due to the mechanism of its effect on the intestinal environment. It is necessary to remember about the components of the probiotic and not prescribe it to babies who are not capable of their adequate assimilation. Mostly "Bifidumbacterin" is given in the form of a powder solution. It is convenient to do this with a pipette, dissolving in breast milk or an adapted formula.

There are a number of requirements to remember when taking the course:

1. The probiotic is consumed only fresh.
2. By introducing the powder into water warmer than 40 degrees, you deprive it of all its beneficial properties.
3. Store the product in the refrigerator, but do not freeze it.
4. Give the medicine before feeding or half an hour before a meal.
5. Dosage recommendation - 2-3 times application of the solution (1 sachet is taken per dose). If we are not talking about treatment, but about the prevention of colic, the dose is halved.
6. Typically, the probiotic should be drunk within 3 weeks.

The main component of this drug is bifidobacteria. They inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria and help reduce bloating. The probiotic components do not have a harmful effect on the newborn's body.

"Linex"

This drug is known for a large number of positive reviews and is designed to improve the condition of the baby in a short time, starting from the first days of life. It must be remembered that the composition is not indicated for infants with lactase deficiency, as well as hypersensitivity to the components of the drug. The contents of the capsule or sachet are diluted in water or breast milk. Dosing regimen - 3 times a day after a certain period of time before feeding. The powder does not have a distinct taste and smell, however, there are certain difficulties with use ready-made solution, therefore it is preferable to give the drug to the child at the moment when he experiences the greatest feeling hunger.

Narine

The composition will not only improve the state of microflora, but also can become additional nutrition and prevention of spasms in children who are “artificial”. For newborns with colic and milk intolerance, lactobacillus "Narine" successfully cope with the breakdown of lactose and protein.

It has been proven that about 5% of children are born with a lack of essential enzymes.

In addition to the traditional probiotic treatment, foods fermented with this culture are used in the diet of a child with colic. They can be given from 3 days of age if breastfeeding is not available. ½ bag dissolves in 30-40 ml. water (the course requires 14 daily doses in the amount of 1 sachet, which is divided into two doses). You can use juice or fruit drink for these purposes.

The general opinion of pediatricians is not to prescribe or choose probiotics on their own, without tests, examination, etc. Self-medication is a risk to the health of the baby.

All probiotics are dietary supplements, and therefore do not have as developed an evidence base as patented drugs for colic. They can overstimulate the immune system, not always leading to positive results. The probiotic dose should be taken within 1-3 weeks, 20-60 minutes before feeding or one hour after. If the condition improves, it can be cut in half. Some drugs have a long course of up to several months - it must also be selected by a specialist, based on the test results.

In particular, incorrectly prescribed "Hilak Forte" has a negative effect on the esophagus. Exceeding the dosage is fraught with manifestations on the skin up to urticaria, which causes obvious discomfort. In general, a sign that the probiotic is not selected correctly may be high fever, increased abdominal pain.

Functional disorders as a cause of colic

The infant may be deficient in enzymes from birth. For example, a lactase deficiency results in milk sugar not being digested in the intestines, creating toxins and causing bloating. To solve this problem, the drug "Lactazar" is useful. First, you need to pass a feces test to make sure that the source of colic is lactase deficiency in a newborn. Breast milk is used to dilute enzymes.

Creon is needed to replace pancreatic enzymes. Helps to establish digestion, assimilate nutrients and increase body weight if the cause of colic is a functional disorder of the organ. Intestinal dysfunction with a favorable course is eliminated - and the colic disappears. Fermentation of food debris in the colon with concomitant bloating ceases.

If the pancreas is in critical condition and does not cope with its functions, the appointment of "Creon" is unsafe.

"Mezim" can be taken once as an ambulance and as prescribed by a doctor. The tablet should be crushed and diluted in water, tea, compote. If your baby can only drink water or breast milk, be careful not to spit out the solution. Use a syringe without a needle to take the dose.

The timing and intensity of enzyme therapy with special drugs are usually low. This is due to the fact that the body must independently get used to such work. Side effects also do not contribute to the duration of the course - the baby may begin to be bothered by constipation, diarrhea, in some cases vomiting, an allergic reaction is observed. Enzyme preparations are prescribed by a strictly treating pediatrician. It is also necessary to take into account the intake of other medications, if any, were prescribed for the treatment of the newborn.

What if all else fails?

Colic is a manifestation of the "growing up" of the infant's gastrointestinal tract. It is not always possible to eliminate them medically. In this case, you should take care of the emotional background in the family, the steady state of the mother, her good mood.

It is necessary to distract the child from spasms and accompanying painful sensations, apply to the tummy warmth (including directing a warm shower stream to the stomach), wrap an ironed diaper around the stomach and back. You need to carry the baby in your arms (but not in the cradle position, this will only worsen the situation!), Put it facing you upside down, more often keep it upright after feeding. Another option is to place the baby with his stomach on his shoulder, knee.

By massaging the intestinal area clockwise, you can achieve a discharge of gas. Special gymnastics will also help with colic, which is based on the movements of the legs pressed against the stomach, breeding, rotation and pairing them with the elbows. You can twist the baby "airplane" - this will add positive emotions and help to cope with gas cars. For physical activity, which helps to normalize the condition with colic, fitball is also used. The ball with pimples provides an additional soft effect on the abdominal area. A warm diaper or sheet should be placed under the belly. This will keep the child from slipping off the ball and relieve pain.

When bathing, you can add chamomile infusion, which has an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effect. A bath with moderate heat has a beneficial effect on the course of processes in the intestines. Not everyone dares to go to the steam room with the child - in this case, you can go to the sauna, which will also be a good prophylaxis for colic.

The last resort is a gas tube or pipette, which is inserted into the anus. They artificially induce gas and even bowel movements, irritating the sphincter. But this should be the last step on the way to getting rid of the child from spasms, since the very intervention in such processes is addictive and irritates the anus. If you still have to use such a tool, its tip must be lubricated with petroleum jelly or cream. The insertion depth is no more than 2 centimeters. If the child resists and screams desperately, the tube should be discontinued.

Demand-fed babies may need more attention if the newborn's fermentation system is not working at full capacity. The frequency of attachments should be tailored individually, keeping in mind that sometimes a reasonable interval can be a way out and prevents the accumulation of mucus in the intestines, which causes bloating.

On the other hand, it is breast milk that supplies all the necessary substances to the newborn's body, so the introduction of the regimen is a very controversial method.

Remember that colic can manifest itself as an independent symptom, or indicate the presence of general functional disorders. If you have any suspicions, see your doctor and do not neglect stool tests. With a lack of beneficial microflora in the mother's body, there is a great chance of getting infant dysbiosis, and in this case, colic can also bother the baby. For adequate therapy, a diagnosis may be required - and the sooner the cause is identified, the better for the child's health. Do not forget about folk remedies, be active and teach your baby to active physical activities.