Lactase Infant Drops
What is lactose?
Dairy products such as milk & infant formulas contain a complex sugar called lactose.
Excessive crying in babies can be associated with transient lactose intolerance, the result of an immature digestive system. This occurs when babies are unable to fully break down the lactose found in dairy. Symptoms include discomfort, and are referred to as ‘Colic’ which can be identified by outbursts of lengthy periods of distressed crying.
What is colic?
Colic can be identified by frequent, lengthy outbursts of distressed crying, even in healthy infants. With no common identified cause, this can typically be frustrating for parents who have tried everything.
Colic usually peaks around about 6 weeks and declines after 3-4 months. While the excessive crying will resolve with time, managing colic can add stress whilst caring for your infant.
What is lactase and how do Infant Drops help?
Lactase is the enzyme our body typically produces to break down lactose into more simple sugars allowing us to absorb it. Some babies have trouble breaking down lactose in their first few months of life. These drops help break down and reduce the levels of lactose in a baby’s feed through such enzymes, reducing the symptoms of colic.
As your baby grows and its digestive system matures (At around 3 - 4 months) you should be able to gradually reduce the use of lactase infant drops until they are no longer needed.
When can Lactase Infant Drops be used?
Lactase Infant Drops can be used from birth onwards. They should only be used for as long as it takes the infant to produce enough of its own lactase enzyme as the gut develops - typically at around 3 - 4 months.
To gradually eliminate the use of Lactase Infant Drops:
Use half the number of drops per feed.
Then begin to use only during alternating feeds.
Finally, reduce to use once per day before eliminating completely. If signs of discomfort return, ask your doctor or health visitor for further advice.
Additional information including directions for use, storage instructions, ingredients and warnings are included on product packaging. If any signs of your infant's discomfort return, ask your doctor or health visitor for further advice.