Too Many Babies Take Reflux Drugs

by Valorie Delp | More from this Blogger

07 Nov 2007 07:13 AM

A recent study was done where doctors and researchers looked at 44 infants who were thought of by their parents as having reflux issues. Interestingly, only 8 of those babies actually fit the diagnostic criteria for having GERD. However, all but two were on anti-reflux medication. The study was prompted by a pediatric gastroenterologist who was receiving increasingly more referrals for spitting up issues.

It is known that approximately 70% of babies spit up, up to four times per day. The doctor also points out that second hand ciagarette smoke, gas, constipation, and colic are much more common causes of irritability than is GERD. They also said that one type of medication for GERD has seen a seven fold increase in prescriptions in the last six years. All this despite the fact that no long term study has been done determining the effectiveness and safety of any drug given to babies. But there is no doubt, the doctor concludes that anti-reflux drugs are being prescribed too much in babies.

Signs of Reflux

Forceful vomiting and vomiting so much that a baby doesn't gain weight are symptoms that should be evaluated.

Recurrent repiratory problems.

Constant irritability that may become worse if you lay the child down on her back.

Quick Fixes, Extra Laundry, and the Hard Work Mantra

It seems to me that parents more and more want quick fixes. I have heard more moms talk about going to the doctor when their child has a cold to "get something" for it. (In case you're wondering what's wrong with that. . .a cold is a virus. . .there's nothing to 'get' for it.) Antibiotic use in the last decade has soared and doctors are starting to find out that antibiotic use does have side effects in children when it's used too much.

The reality is that babies puke, they get gas, and they spit up. . .and sometimes they spit up a lot. They do it just because they're babies and for no other reason. Sometimes moms, we have to just dig out the Febreze and keep going. I certainly don't want to diminish the need for evaluation, especially because I know that if a baby has a severe case of GERD it can really be painful and difficult. However, moms and dads, I would urge you to really do your research. Does your child fit all the diagnostic criteria of GERD? If not, really rethink whether or not you want him on medication as all medications have side effects.

Learn more about Valorie Delp

Hello everybody! My name is Valorie and I am one busy lady! When I'm not writing or editing for families, I am busy trying to get my brood of 5 in line.

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JoJo (39432) 07 Nov 2007 07:43 AM

oohhh I so so agree!!! We do live in a 'quick fix' society. I think ADD and ADHD are also overly diagnosed for a children that is simply being children. Kids aren't easy, they can be horrendously naughty and they can just refuse to sleep and be packed full of energy. Just because they are being kids!.

Valorie Delp (49340) 07 Nov 2007 07:52 AM

Thanks Jo! Yes, I would say the same thing. Interestingly, it was suggested to us several times that our son had ADD. We were told we were in denial, we were told that he would have learning problems, yada, yada, yada. He is the gifted one that I write about often in hsing and guess what? No learning problems. At 6 he is able to sit and focus for hours at a time, he reads, he does math. . .and he still has a ton of energy to burn. It's just who he is. He was just plain energetic. No medication necessary.