Infant Colic: The Best Over-the-Counter Medications
- Joyce Vallo
- Mar 2, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: Sep 17, 2024
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Welcoming a new baby into the family brings immense joy, but the cries of an infant with colic can be challenging for parents. In this guide, we'll explore the world of infant colic, understand its causes, and discover the best over-the-counter (OTC) medications to bring relief to both babies and their caregivers
Quick Look at the Over-the-Counter Medications for Infant Colic
Tiny Remedies Calm Tummies click here👉 Natural Colic Relief
Kleenfant Happy Tummy Massage Oil click here👉 Anti-Colic Calm Skin care Remedies for Baby
Little Remedies Gas Relief Drops click here👉 Safe for Newborns Antigas
Colic Calm click here👉 Colic & Infant Gas Relief Drops
Infacol Simeticone click here👉 Colic Relief Drops
Baby Ddrops Liquid Probiotic Supplement click here👉 Infant Gastrointestinal Regulating, Preventing Flatulence
Price | Features |
Tiny Remedies Calm Tummies Natural Colic Relief | Natural ingredients, safe for newborns |
Kleenfant Happy Tummy Massage Oil (60ml) | Anti-colic properties, gentle on baby's skin |
Little Remedies Gas Relief Drops | Safe for newborns, available in two sizes |
Colic Calm Colic & Infant Gas Relief Drops | Natural active ingredients, fast-acting |
Infacol Simeticone Colic Relief Drops | Contains simeticone, helps relieve colic |
Baby Ddrops Liquid Probiotic Supplement | Probiotic supplement, allergy-friendly |
What Causes Colic?
While the exact causes of colic remain uncertain, there are several theories on what contributes to these inconsolable crying episodes in otherwise healthy infants:
Immature gastrointestinal system - Babies' digestive systems are still developing, which can make it difficult for them to pass gas or have bowel movements. This can cause discomfort, gas pain, and cramping that leads to crying.
Food sensitivities - Some babies may have difficulty digesting components in formula or breastmilk, such as lactose. This can irritate their intestinal lining and cause crying.
Gas - Swallowing air during feeding and normal intestinal bacteria can cause gas to get trapped. Excess gas can put pressure on the intestinal walls, causing abdominal pain.
Baby temperament - Some babies seem to have a more sensitive temperament and get overwhelmed or overstimulated more easily. Their crying may be related to their mood, not an underlying medical issue.
Overstimulation or fatigue - Babies have much higher sensory needs. Too much noise, activity, or handling when the baby needs rest can trigger crying.
Hormones - Changes in hormones or neurotransmitters may play a role. The hormone motilin rises before feeding which may explain late afternoon/evening crying.
Allergies - While less common, some babies have allergies or intolerances to something in their diet, environment, or products used on their skin.
Other medical conditions - While most colic has no clear cause, sometimes frequent crying can result from acid reflux, a UTI, intestinal obstruction, or other issues. Doctors may run tests to rule these out.
In most cases, colic is not caused by parenting mistakes, anxiety during pregnancy, type of delivery, or anything parents did or didn't do. It does not reflect poor care or an unhealthy baby. The best strategies involve comforting techniques and trying different colic remedies to see if any provide relief.
Signs and Symptoms of Colic
The main signs and symptoms of colic include:
Frequent crying episodes - Babies with colic often cry for more than 3 hours total per day, for at least 3 days a week, and for longer than 3 weeks in an otherwise healthy infant.
Crying starts and stops suddenly - The intense crying begins abruptly and can stop just as suddenly too. It tends to follow a predictable pattern each day.
Crying in the late afternoon or evening - Colicky crying most often occurs later in the day, peaking around 6pm when infants are likely overtired.
Intense crying - The cry of a colicky baby is usually a very intense, high-pitched wail. It may sound strained or like the baby is in pain.
Clenched fists and arched back - Babies may clench their fists, arch their back, stiffen their legs, and throw back their head when crying.
Red, flushed face - A colicky baby's face often becomes flushed, red, and warm during intense crying episodes.
No clear cause for crying - Colic crying seems unrelated to hunger, sleep, needing a diaper change, or wanting to be held.
Hard to console - The baby is extremely difficult to soothe and calm down once the frantic crying starts.
Disrupts feeding and sleeping - The prolonged cries can interfere with the baby's ability to sleep soundly and eat properly.
Normal weight gain - Despite the crying and irritability, the baby continues gaining weight appropriately and has good energy levels overall .
If your baby's crying seems extreme but they are otherwise healthy, growing well, and meeting milestones, colic may be the reason. Keeping a log of when crying episodes occur and how long they last can help identify colic patterns.
When to See a Doctor
While most colic resolves on its own without medical treatment, it's a good idea to consult a pediatrician if:
The crying and irritability severely disrupts the baby's sleep and feeding patterns over a prolonged period. This can lead to poor weight gain.
The colic symptoms get notably worse instead of improving gradually. Prolonged crying that intensifies may indicate another medical condition is involved.
Other concerning symptoms develop in addition to fussiness like fever, breathing issues, diarrhea, vomiting, rash, or signs of pain. These warrant a medical evaluation.
The baby shows sensitivity to certain foods or cannot tolerate formula. Testing for allergies, acid reflux, or other intolerances may be needed.
Comforting techniques and colic remedies provide little to no relief for the baby's symptoms. Different treatment approaches may help.
The crying lasts for much longer periods exceeding 4-5 hours per day, even with consoling attempts. This may signal an underlying condition.
Parents feel completely overwhelmed by the crying and unable to cope. Doctors can provide support options and allay worries of long-term effects.
There are concerns about shaken baby syndrome or child abuse. Doctors can help prevent this through education, respite care, and monitoring risks.
While most colic improves with time, it's important doctors rule out other conditions. Seeking help is encouraged if parents have any concerns about the baby's wellbeing and need extra support.
Over-the Counter Remedies and Medications
Here are 6 over the counter products commonly used to help relieve colic:
Tiny Remedies Calm Tummies Natural Colic Relief - Herbal remedy with chamomile, lemon balm, and fennel to ease stomach discomfort. Safe, natural ingredients in easy to give drops.
Pros: Made with natural ingredients, safe for newborns.
Cons: May not work for severe cases of colic.
Ideal Customers: Parents looking for a gentle and natural colic relief solution.
Result Achieved: Provides relief from mild colic symptoms.
Social Proof: Positive reviews praising its effectiveness in soothing babies.
Kleenfant Happy Tummy Massage Oil - Natural oil blend to gently massage baby's tummy to relieve gas. Has calming oils like lavender and geranium. Simple DIY option.
Pros: Anti-colic properties, gentle on baby's skin.
Cons: Scent may be too strong for some babies.
Ideal Customers: Parents seeking a massage oil with colic-relief benefits.
Result Achieved: Helps calm babies during massage sessions.
Social Proof: High ratings and positive feedback on its soothing effects.
Little Remedies Gas Relief Drops - Simethicone drops to relieve gas pain and pressure. Breaks up gas bubbles in the gut.
Pros: Safe for newborns, available in two sizes.
Cons: May require frequent dosing for effectiveness.
Ideal Customers: Parents looking for a reliable gas relief solution.
Result Achieved: Helps alleviate gas discomfort in infants.
Social Proof: Trusted by many parents for its gentle yet effective formula.
Colic Calm Drops - Multi-ingredient formula with herbs that ease stomach cramping and discomfort. No harmful ingredients.
Pros: Natural ingredients, fast-acting relief.
Cons: May not work for severe cases of colic.
Ideal Customers: Parents looking for a natural colic relief solution.
Result Achieved: Provides relief from mild colic symptoms.
Social Proof: Positive reviews praising its effectiveness in soothing babies.
Infacol Simeticone Colic Relief Drops - Simethicone to quickly break up gas bubbles and relieve pressure.
Pros: Contains simeticone, helps relieve colic.
Cons: May require frequent dosing for effectiveness.
Ideal Customers: Parents seeking a reliable gas relief solution.
Result Achieved: Helps alleviate gas discomfort in infants.
Social Proof: Trusted by many parents for its gentle yet effective formula.
Baby Ddrops Liquid Probiotic - Probiotic supplement promotes healthy gut flora to improve digestion and reduce gas.
Pros: Probiotic supplement, allergy-friendly.
Cons: May not be effective for all babies.
Ideal Customers: Parents seeking a natural colic relief solution.
Result Achieved: Regulates infant's digestive system effectively.
Social Proof: High ratings and positive feedback on its soothing effects.
Discuss all medication and supplements with your pediatrician first and never exceed recommended doses. Pay attention to any side effects. Combining remedies may help provide colic relief.
Buyer's Guide:
When choosing a colic relief product for your baby, consider factors such as the ingredients used, ease of administration, effectiveness, and any specific preferences you have regarding natural or traditional remedies. It's essential to consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new products to your baby's routine to ensure they are safe and suitable for your child's needs.
Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies
In addition to medications, there are several lifestyle changes and home remedies that may help soothe a colicky baby:
Tummy massages - Gently rub or bicycle the baby's legs to relieve gas. Use warm hands or colic massage oils. Avoid pushing too hard on the abdomen.
Holding techniques - Swaddling, baby wearing in a sling/carrier, and skin-to-skin contact provides comfort and security. The warmth and motion can have a calming effect.
White noise - The soothing sounds of a running shower, fan, or white noise machine can distract from discomfort.
Motion - Rocking, car rides, stroller walks, or infant swings can calm babies. The rhythmic movement may counteract cramping.
Pacifiers - Sucking action helps distract babies from stomach issues and self-soothe. Offer pacifiers at the first signs of fussiness.
Feeding adjustments - Burp frequently during and after feeds. Avoid overfeeding. Try eliminating gassy foods if breastfeeding. Switch formula if not tolerating.
Warm bath - A gentle warm bath can relax muscles and distract babies from colic pain before bedtime. Keep water temperature just right.
Bedtime routine - A calming, consistent bedtime routine helps signal sleep. Options include swaddling, white noise, dim lights, reading.
Get fresh air - Bringing baby outside for a change of scenery and fresh air can sometimes distract from discomfort.
Discuss adjustments with your pediatrician. Combining remedies, lifestyle changes, and parenting techniques may help manage colic symptoms.
When to Call the Pediatrician
While colic eventually resolves on its own, speak to your pediatrician if:
The crying reaches a point where you feel overwhelmed, angry, depressed or exhausted. Doctors can provide support options, reassurance and help prevent harm.
The inconsolable crying lasts for prolonged periods exceeding 3-4 hours per episode despite various soothing techniques. This may indicate an underlying condition.
Your baby seems to be in severe pain based on high-pitched screams, writhing, gagging or choking during cries. There may be an intestinal obstruction, reflux or other issue causing this.
Crying episodes continue past 4-5 months of age without improvement. Colic typically peaks at 6 weeks and improves by 3-4 months as the nervous system matures.
You notice blood in the baby's diaper, which could indicate an allergy or intestinal issue.
Your baby struggles with weight gain or feeding due to disrupted sleep and eating. Poor growth warrants an evaluation.
Fever over 100.4°F, vomiting, rash, breathing issues, diarrhea or other concerning symptoms accompany the crying.
You have strong suspicions about a food allergy or intolerance that may be provoking symptoms. Testing may identify triggers.
OTC colic remedies do not provide any relief after trying for 2 weeks. Alternative treatments may be needed.
There are risks of shaken baby syndrome or abuse. Doctors can provide emergency respite care if you're at a breaking point.
While frustrating, remember colic is temporary and not harmful. But do seek pediatrician advice if you have any concerns about your baby’s health or safety.
Conclusion
Coping with a colicky baby can be extremely challenging for parents. The frequent, prolonged crying episodes can be distressing and exhausting to manage. While the exact cause of colic remains uncertain, possible explanations include intestinal gas, food sensitivities, immature digestive systems, overstimulation, and general baby fussiness.
Most babies begin to improve after 6 weeks once their nervous systems mature and intestinal tracts develop. While frustrating, remember colic is temporary and not harmful to your baby. But do consult your pediatrician if crying disrupts feeding or sleep, other symptoms appear, or you need extra support. With time, patience and trying different remedies, you will survive this challenging period and begin to see happier days ahead.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about colic and suggestions for managing symptoms. Always consult your pediatrician about the best treatment options for your baby.
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