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When your little one is crying, it can get overwhelming especially if you are unsure if it’s hunger, sleepiness, or wet diapers.

Babies can get gassy from crying excessively or from swallowing gas while feeding and colic is also a reason babies can get fussy or cry a lot

Gas drops (simethicone) and Gripe water have become options that families turn to for some relief.

But how do you as a parent decide which to use? Which is safer and more effective?

Below is an easily understandable comparison table to help. And at the end, I share which pediatricians may recommend.

Basics to know

Gas drops (Simethicone)

This is considered a medical treatment. The active content is Simethicone which acts by breaking the gas bubbles in your baby’s stomach. When broken down, the gas is easier to pass. It is not absorbed in the baby’s system and gets passed out when it’s done. While simethicone has been noted to be helpful for gas, it hasn’t actually been proven to be effective with colic.

Gripe water

Gripe water has been around for years and was invented by Woodard. It was initially marketed as a prescription but removed from the market due to the noted alcohol content.  Gripe water is considered a herbal supplement and contents may vary depending on the company that makes it.

Herbal supplements are not recommended in babies and studies haven’t found them to be effective for colic. A few studies have found them useful in reducing crying but suggestions note it is likely due to the sugar content in some.

The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend the use of gripe water for babies due to lack of evidence of being effective but with risk of possible harm.

Now, what’s the difference?

How is it dosed?

Gas drops (Simethicone)

Gas drops can be used about 4 times a day and starting dose in babies is 20mg (which is 0.3ml for most brands). Be sure to confirm with your pediatrician.

Gripe water

There are no standard doses for gripe water. Speak to your pediatrician. Some locations still have alcohol in their brand of gripe water. Be sure to always read the packaging content.

My personal choice:

If I think a child is gassy, I may give gas drops. However, I recommend other non-medical therapy such as belly massages and bicycle kicks. 

With studies not showing the true benefits of gripe water, I do not prescribe it. But, I would like to hear your experience with either of them.

See more history on Gripe water below. 

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