Colicaid drops have become a common remedy for infants dealing with colicky discomfort.
But, how do you properly give colicaid? And is it safe to administer daily? Especially when your baby is 3 days old only, there are many concerns that new parents might have.
Dive into this detailed guide to understand the ins and outs of colicaid drops and to make an informed decision for your baby’s health.
What Are Colicaid Drops?
Colicaid drops or gas drops as its sometimes called , are commonly used to relieve symptoms of colic in infants. They contain ingredients like simethicone, dill oil, and fennel oil. Colicaid drops are manufactured by Meyer Organics Pvt. Ltd
Simethicone helps to release gas in the stomach, reducing discomfort caused by trapped gas. Dill oil and fennel oil provide relief from abdominal pain and indigestion.
Use of Colicaid for Infants?
Infants, especially those under a month old, often experience colic pain, gas, and dyspepsia. The cause might be due to their developing intestinal motility.
Using Colicaid drops can provide relief, reducing the abdominal pain and helping release trapped gas bubbles. Here are the main situations when Colicaid drops are used:
- Dyspepsia: Also known as indigestion, this condition is characterized by several symptoms causing severe pain in the upper abdomen. Symptoms include abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and bloating.
- Esophageal spasm: Abnormal spasms of the food pipe result in stomach pain and discomfort. The condition is known as a motility disorder.
When to Give Colicaid Drops?
It’s not uncommon for parents to give Colic-aid drops after every feed, especially during night time when the baby cries a lot in the night.
However, it’s essential to understand your baby’s cues and administer the drops when there’s evident discomfort from gas or indigestion.
Can we give Colicaid daily?
Yes, but it can only be given to babies daily at a fixed dose based on the doctor’s prescription for the appropriate medical condition.
If administered without a prescription, the dose should not be over 12 drops each day with a gap of atleast 4–6 hours before another dose. In case of an allergic reaction, please inform your doctor or seek immediate medical attention.
How Often Should I Give Colicaid Daily?
While it might be tempting to administer Colicaid drops on a daily basis, it’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage or use them as needed.
Over-reliance can lead to dependency and might reduce the natural ability of the infant’s system to combat gas.
Always consult with your pharmacist or doctor if you have any queries or doubts in the absence of any information related to frequency of use.
Dose: How Much is Too Much?
The dose of Colicaid drops depends on the baby’s age and weight. For a 3-day-old baby, it’s essential to consult with a pediatrician to determine the appropriate dosage per kg body weight.
Never give more drops than recommended, as it may lead to side effects.
Although Colicaid is available without a prescription, it may be prescribed by a doctor in some situations.
In such circumstances, the dosage should be given to children in line with the doctor’s prescription.
Typically, doctors will prescribe:
- 5–10 drops four times a day to children under the age of six months.
- 10–20 drops four times a day to children aged six to twelve months.
- 20–25 drops four times a day to children over the age of one year.
Possible Side Effects of Colicaid
As with any medicine, there are potential side effects. Some infants might experience loose motions, spit up more frequently, or develop a rash.
If you notice any abnormal reactions, it’s crucial to stop administration and consult a pediatrician immediately.
Precautions to Consider
- Always read the label and ensure you’re using the dropper correctly.
- If your baby shows signs of an allergic reaction or any side-effect, cease use and seek medical advice.
- Always keep the medicine out of reach of toddlers or older children.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colicaid
- Is it okay to give colicaid daily to a 2-month-old baby? It’s best to consult your pediatrician for regular usage.
- Can I use colicaid and gripe water together? Both are used to relieve colic symptoms, but always ask a doctor before combining medicines.
- Are there any long-term side effects? There’s no documented long-term side effect, but always monitor your child after giving any medicine.
Consultation: When to Seek Expert Advice?
If you’re unsure about the dosage, or if the colicaid drops don’t seem effective, or if your baby’s symptoms worsen, it’s always a good idea to consult with a pediatrician. Remember, while the information provided herein is for informational purposes, it shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. Always prioritize expert advice.
Alternative Remedies for Colic
Apart from colicaid, there are other remedies like gripe water, burping the baby frequently, gentle tummy massages, and ensuring the baby is in a comfortable position. These can help relieve colic symptoms and discomfort.
In Conclusion
- Colicaid drops can offer relief from colic symptoms in infants.
- Always ensure you’re administering the right dosage.
- Consult with a pediatrician if you’re unsure or if symptoms persist.
- Be aware of potential side effects.
- Always consider other natural remedies in conjunction with or as an alternative to medication.
Remember, each baby is unique, so it’s crucial to understand their needs and act accordingly. Your baby’s comfort and health are always of utmost importance.
FAQs
What are the main ingredients in Colicaid drops, and how do they work?
The primary ingredients in Colicaid drops are simethicone, dill oil, and fennel oil. Simethicone works by helping to release trapped gas in the stomach, thus reducing discomfort.
Dill oil and fennel oil both have properties that can provide relief from abdominal pain and indigestion, commonly associated with colic in infants.
Can I give Colicaid drops to my baby regularly, even if they’re not showing signs of colic?
While Colicaid drops are designed to provide relief from colicky symptoms, it’s not recommended to administer them without any evident discomfort.
Over-reliance or frequent usage without symptoms might reduce the natural ability of the infant’s digestive system to combat gas and may lead to dependency. Always consult with a pediatrician about regular usage.
How soon can I expect relief for my baby after I give him Colicaid drops?
Colic aid drops are designed to offer quick relief from colic symptoms. Most parents observe a decrease in their baby’s discomfort within 20 to 30 minutes of administering the drops.
If you give more drops at once it helps to relieve gas pain faster. However, every baby is different, and to use more drops and the time taken for relief might vary. Please check with your pharmacist or healthcare professional if in doubt.
Are there any foods or drinks a breastfeeding mother should avoid to reduce colic symptoms in the baby?
While colic can have multiple causes, some breastfeeding mothers have noticed a correlation between certain foods they consume and increased colic symptoms in their babies.
Common culprits include dairy products, caffeine, spicy foods, and gas-producing foods like beans and broccoli.
If a nursing mother suspects a particular food might be causing discomfort, it’s a good idea to eliminate it for a few days and observe any changes.
Are there alternatives to Colicaid drops for treating colic symptoms in infants?
Yes, there are several alternatives to Colicaid drops. Gripe water is another popular remedy for colic symptoms.
Additionally, natural measures such as frequent burping during and after feeds, gentle tummy massages, ensuring a proper latch during breastfeeding to reduce air intake, and using pacifiers can also help soothe a colicky baby.
However, always consult with a pediatrician before introducing any new remedy to your infant’s routine.
