7. Should I treat my baby’s colic?
Colic will go away on its own with no long-term adverse effects.8 It does not require treatment. However, many parents want to do something and will try different treatment options.
8. What are some available over-the-counter products for colic?
None of the over-the-counter colic products have been actually proven to help with colic. The table below highlights the colic products.
Swipe/Scroll Left or Right to view more Class | Dose | How it works | Side effects | Comments |
Probiotic agents (such as BioGaia®) | Give 5 drops once daily, 30 minutes after feeding1 | Replenishes inadequate levels of healthy bacteria in the baby’s gut |
None reported
Generally well-tolerated
No long-term data
|
May only work for breast-fed babies11
Some studies have shown that it works and may work after 7 days of regular use.
If no improvement after 21 days, stop using it11 |
Simethicone 40mg/mL) (such as Ovol®) |
0.25 -0.5 ml with or after feeding1
Maximum: 1.5 mL/day13 | Decreases gas and helps for gut discomfort |
Does not work very well, but is safe to try
May be added to formula, or given directly13
Start with the lowest dose first and then increase slowly if needed, do not exceed the maximum daily dose. If the product does not work after using it for a few days, stop using it.
|
9. Which colic treatments should I AVOID and could possibly HARM my baby?1

Swipe/Scroll Left or Right to view more Inappropriate therapy1 | Comments | Side effects |
Alcohol | Doesn’t work | Intoxication, low sugar levels |
Sedatives | Doesn’t work | Drowsiness and problem breathing |
Gripe water |
Doesn’t work
Some products contain alcohol and sugar
| Flatulence (gas) |
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) | Doesn’t work | Drowsiness, constipation |

Note
You must consult a healthcare professional about the appropriateness of any of these methods.