Can You Give Gripe Water to a Baby With Stomach Pain? 3 Reasons Not To

Dr. Sandip Gupta

Mothers have asked: if a small child has stomach pain, can I use gripe water for them? The doctor's view is that gripe water should not be used in children, for three main reasons. No research support – no research has proved that gripe water is helpful for children's stomach pain, indigestion or gas problems. Ingredients are not standardised – gripe water ingredients are not standard; every company makes a different type of gripe water. Not approved by the USFDA – the USFDA has not approved gripe water as a medicine for babies. Relevant for: parents whose baby has stomach pain, gas or indigestion and who are considering gripe water; parents asking whether gripe water actually works; parents wanting to know whether gripe water is regulated or approved for infants; and parents given gripe water advice by family or others and looking for a doctor's view. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every child is different — please consult your pediatrician before giving any drops, syrup or preparation to your child, and if your baby has persistent stomach pain, excessive crying, vomiting or poor feeding.