Colic Drops and Lactase Drops for Babies: How They Differ
Lactase drops add the enzyme that breaks down lactose (milk sugar), so they suit babies who struggle to digest the lactose in breast milk or formula. Other colic drops work differently: simethicone drops target trapped wind and probiotic drops add beneficial bacteria.
What people mean by colic drops
"Colic drops" is a broad name for products given to babies who seem uncomfortable, cry or pull up their legs after feeds. Three types are common:
| Type | How it works | How it is given |
|---|---|---|
| Simethicone drops | Help break up gas bubbles in the gut | Given to the baby, as the pack directs |
| Probiotic drops | Add beneficial bacteria to the gut | Given to the baby, as the pack directs |
| Lactase drops, such as Colix | Add lactase, which breaks lactose down into glucose and galactose | Mixed into breast milk or formula before the feed |
How lactase drops work
Lactase is the enzyme that splits lactose into two simpler sugars, glucose and galactose. Not all babies digest the lactose in milk with the same ease, because their own intestinal lactase activity can be low, for example in transient lactase deficiency or after a premature birth. Lactose that is not digested is broken down by bacteria in the colon, which produces gas that can cause bloating and discomfort. The Colix package insert notes that research has identified transient lactase deficiency as one of the factors in infant colic.
Lactase drops add the enzyme to the milk before it reaches your baby, to support the digestion of lactose in breast milk and formula.
Using Colix Infant Drops
Colix Infant Drops contain purified lactase enzyme (3000 ALU/g minimum) in glycerol and purified water, and no sugar. Add 2 drops to about 10 ml of expressed breast milk (or water) and give it by spoon before a breastfeed, or add 2 drops per 90 ml of warm formula and let it stand for 30 minutes. Use it before every feed. See the step-by-step Colix instructions.
When to see a healthcare professional
Crying and discomfort after feeds are common, but speak to your clinic sister, GP or paediatrician if your baby has a fever, vomits repeatedly, has blood in the stool, is not feeding or gaining weight well, or cries for long periods and cannot be settled.
This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your healthcare provider. Product details come from the Colix Infant Drops package insert. Colix is a complementary medicine that has not been evaluated by SAHPRA for its quality, safety or intended use.