Woodwards Gripe Water

Woodwards Gripe Water is an oral liquid for babies and young children, from one of the longest-established gripe water brands. DoctorOnCall lists it in a 148ml bottle. Gripe water is traditionally given to babies for wind (gas) and the tummy discomfort that may come with it, such as fussiness after feeds.

The formulation contains sodium bicarbonate, a mild antacid, together with herbal or botanical ingredients. Gripe water formulations differ between markets and have changed over the years, so parents and caregivers should always read the full ingredient list, strength per dose and age-specific directions on the bottle and carton before use.

Because this product is given to infants, it should be used carefully and only as directed on the label. Parents are advised to speak to a doctor or pharmacist before giving it to a newborn or young baby, and to seek medical advice for crying that is persistent, unusual or accompanied by other symptoms. Evidence that gripe water relieves infant colic is limited, and it should never replace medical assessment of an unsettled baby.

Shake the bottle well before use. Measure each dose accurately with the measuring device supplied with the product or a proper oral syringe or medicine spoon; do not use a household spoon. Give the dose slowly into the baby’s mouth, allowing them to swallow between small amounts to reduce the risk of choking.

Follow the age-specific directions on the product label exactly, and do not give more doses in 24 hours than the label states. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before using it in newborns and young infants, in premature babies, or in babies with any ongoing medical condition.

Give the age-appropriate dose stated on the current product label, measured with an accurate dosing device. Never exceed the stated dose or the maximum number of doses in 24 hours, and do not give extra doses if the baby continues to cry.

For newborns and young babies, ask a doctor or pharmacist to confirm whether it is suitable and how much to give before first use. If symptoms persist after using the product as directed, stop using it and seek medical advice rather than increasing the dose.

Refer to the expiry date printed on the product packaging, and do not use the product after this date. Check the label for any instruction on how long the bottle can be used once opened.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use, and keep the bottle and measuring device clean. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

• Common: Hiccups, or changes in bowel movements such as looser or firmer stools.
• Uncommon: Mild vomiting or spitting up after a dose.
• Serious: Allergic reactions such as rash, hives, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing. Stop use and seek medical help immediately.
• Serious: Taking more than the recommended amount of sodium bicarbonate may upset the body’s acid-base and salt balance, which may cause symptoms such as vomiting, irritability, drowsiness or unusual breathing. Seek medical help straight away if too much has been given.

• Do not use if the baby is known to be allergic or sensitive to any ingredient in the product.
• Do not use as a substitute for medical assessment in a baby who has a fever, is vomiting repeatedly, is feeding poorly, is unusually drowsy or has breathing difficulty.
• Do not use in babies with known kidney problems or conditions requiring a restricted sodium intake unless advised by a doctor.
• Do not give more than the dose or frequency stated on the product label.

• Sodium bicarbonate can affect the absorption of some medicines by changing stomach acidity; if the baby or child is taking any other medicine, ask a doctor or pharmacist before giving gripe water.
• Do not give together with other antacids or products containing sodium bicarbonate unless advised by a doctor or pharmacist, to avoid excessive sodium or antacid intake.
• Do not combine with other gripe waters, colic drops or herbal remedies without professional advice, as ingredients may overlap.
• No specific interactions with breast milk or infant formula are known; follow the label directions on whether the dose may be given before or after feeds.

• Check feeding technique and burp your baby during and after feeds, as swallowed air is a common cause of wind.
• Always use an accurate measuring device and never estimate doses with a kitchen spoon.
• Write down the time of each dose so you do not exceed the maximum number of doses in 24 hours.
• Check the full ingredient list on the bottle if your baby has allergies or is taking other medicines.
• Keep the bottle out of reach of older children who might drink it.
• Trust your instincts: if your baby’s crying seems different, constant or comes with other symptoms, see a doctor promptly.

Precautions: Use only as directed on the label and measure every dose with an accurate device. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before giving it to newborns, premature babies, babies with kidney problems or other medical conditions, or babies taking other medicines. Do not give with other antacids or gripe waters unless advised. Keep the bottle out of reach of children, and seek medical help if more than the recommended amount is given.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: See a doctor promptly if the baby’s crying is persistent, high-pitched or unusual, or if it comes with fever, repeated vomiting, green vomit, diarrhoea, blood in the stool, a swollen tummy, poor feeding, fewer wet nappies, unusual drowsiness or breathing difficulty. Babies under 3 months with a temperature of 38°C or higher need urgent medical attention. Stop use and seek help if signs of an allergic reaction appear.