Gripe Water
Because of their immature digestive systems, newborns and babies are prone to gas and tummy troubles. And, when parents are desperate for relief for their tiny new arrivals, their pediatrician may recommend gripe water as one potential remedy to try. Gripe water is a herbal supplement available in liquid form, its active ingredient being sodium hydrogen carbonate. This is a non-prescription medication which can be readily purchased from supermarkets and pharmacies.
What can Gripe Water Be Used For?
Gripe water is thought to help relieve stomach discomfort, making it easier for babies to pass gas, possibly combat constipation and encourage bowel movements, and even potentially soothe colic.
How to Apply Gripe Water?
Do not give your baby gripe water without first reading the instructions, and only give your baby the recommended dosage. Confirm this dosage with your baby’s healthcare professional.
Warnings
If you’d like to give it a try, be sure to get the green light from your baby’s pediatrician first to make sure that he or she is on board with giving gripe water. If your doctor says gripe water is fine for your baby and it seems to work, you should stop using it by the time your little one is 4 to 6 months old, when gassiness typically becomes less of an issue.
Our Clinical Authors
Written by
Omar El-Gohary
CEO & Superintendent Pharmacist | GPhC Registration: 2059792
Medically reviewed by
Jabbar Ali
MPharm Clinical Lead | GPhC Registration: 2205490
This page has been written by a registered UK pharmacist and reviewed by our clinical team to ensure it is accurate, clear and reflects current clinical guidance.
Last medically reviewed: 20 August 2026
Last updated: 21 August 2026