Gripe Water Side Effects in Babies

For over 150 years, parents have turned to gripe water-- a combination of herbs, baking soda and sweeteners-- as a treatment for common problems during infancy. Gripe water is used as a home remedy for colic, gas, teething, reflux and diarrhea.

While no studies have evaluated the safety or efficacy of gripe water as a solution to these problems, many parents-- including myself-- swear by these popular herbal concoctions. Unfortunately, like all drugs and supplements, gripe water can cause side effects and other complications.

The following gripe water side effects are rare, but parents should be wary of these possible complications.

Premature Breast Development

Fennel is one of the most common gripe water ingredients because it effectively reduces gas pain and relaxes spasms in the colon. However, this dill-like plant contains anethole, and other estrogen-like compounds. These may cause problems for a baby's developing endocrine system.

There are at least a few reports of thelarche-- premature breast development-- in babies who consumed fennel teas and gripe water on a regular basis. Parents can prevent this gripe water side effect by using fennel-containing gripe water sparingly.

Allergies

Almost all herbs and drugs, including gripe water, can cause allergic reactions in people who are susceptible. Popular gripe water ingredients like fennel, ginger and chamomile may trigger allergic reactions in babies who are sensitive to them.

Chamomile, used in gripe water because of its calming properties, is a member of the ragweed family and a common allergen. Symptoms of a gripe water allergy may include rashes, hives and diarrhea. Rarely, an allergy to a gripe water ingredient may trigger anaphylaxis-- a life-threatening allergic reaction.

Drowsiness

Chamomile and other sedative herbs may be used in gripe water because of their calming, soothing effects. Unfortunately, these sedative herbs may cause a baby to become unusually drowsy or lethargic. While occasional sleepiness can allow a colicky infant and his parents to catch up on much-needed sleep, caution is advised for special-needs babies. In theory, large doses of sedative herbs can increase a baby's risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Cavities

Most of gripe water's users are under four months old and do not yet have teeth. For older babies and toddlers, parents should be aware that sweetened gripe-waters can cause dental cavities, particularly when they are overused. Consider brushing your baby's gums or teeth to prevent this gripe water side effect, or choose a brand that uses non-cariogenic sweeteners like stevia.