Infant Reflux Medications
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If you have noticed your baby spitting up and vomiting on a regular basis your baby probably has uncomplicated reflux that is nothing severe and can be treated with lifestyle changes. However, some babies suffer from infant reflux and need medications. Only your doctor will be able to determine if your baby needs medications or can benefit from other changes in the way you feed him. If your pediatrician determines your baby needs medication to treat his infant reflux then your doctor will more than likely review the various types of medications available, how they work, and what will be best for your baby.
Medications your doctor will more than likely discuss with you include the following. Remember, however, that the overview below does not take the place of a doctor’s diagnosis or treatment under the care of a physician so be sure to take your baby to the doctor before trying any of the following drugs.
Antacids
Frequently antacids are used as treatment for infant reflux. This might be surprising because you think only big men use antacids, but tiny babies might need them too. Keep in mind that while antacids are fast acting and successful at making your baby feel better they only treat the symptoms and not the actual reflux problem your baby has. If your pediatrician prescribes antacids for your baby he will outline how you should administer them, a variety of brands, and how often to give your baby the medicine. You will be surprised at how fast the antacids work, but also at how fast they wear off! Some popular antacids for infant reflux include Milk of Magnesia, Mylanta, Maalox, and Gaviscon.
Acid Blockers
Acid blockers also will be frequently prescribed for infant reflux. These drugs work to relieve your baby’s symptoms by actually blocking the acid production in the stomach. Generally parents are pleased with the results of acid blockers although they do not work for all babies. Popular acid blockers include Tagamet, Pepcid, Zantac, and Axid.
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors are also used for infant reflux. These medications work to shut down the pumps that produce acid in your baby’s body so that they will experience fewer symptoms. These drugs work very well and many parents are pleased with the results. Some popular brands include Prilosec, Prevacid, Nexium, and Losec.
Giving an infant medications for reflux is difficult for many parents to accept, however after many sleepless nights most parents are happy to try anything. Of course, lifestyle changes should be tried first and if they don’t work then your doctor will make the decision as to whether or not you should give your baby some of the above medications.
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