Dentinox: Targeting Trapped Wind
For many infants, crying and discomfort are caused by trapped wind or gas. Their immature digestive systems can struggle to process and expel the air swallowed during feeding. Dentinox is formulated specifically to target this issue. The product works as a surface-active substance that helps coalesce small gas bubbles into larger, more easily passed bubbles.
The active ingredient in Dentinox
The primary active ingredient in Dentinox Infant Colic Drops is activated dimeticone, which is a type of simeticone. This substance is not absorbed into the body but remains within the gut, where it acts as an anti-foaming agent. By reducing the surface tension of the gas bubbles, dimeticone allows them to merge, making it easier for the baby to burp or pass wind. The drops are typically administered with or after a feed using a provided syringe.
Colief: Addressing Lactose Digestion
In some babies, colic is linked to temporary lactose intolerance, where their digestive system lacks sufficient lactase enzyme to break down the lactose in milk. This undigested lactose can ferment in the gut, causing discomfort, bloating, and gas. Colief was developed to mitigate this issue by pre-digesting the lactose before the baby consumes it.
The active ingredient in Colief
Colief Infant Drops contain lactase enzyme, a naturally occurring substance that breaks down lactose into simpler, more easily digestible sugars. By adding the drops to the baby's milk (either expressed breast milk or formula), the lactase enzyme reduces the milk's lactose content, helping to relieve digestive discomfort. This makes Colief a suitable treatment for babies whose colic may be caused by a temporary inability to digest lactose, a common issue as their digestive systems mature.
Comparing Dentinox and Colief: A side-by-side view
To help you differentiate between these two treatments, here is a comparative breakdown of their key features:
| Feature | Dentinox | Colief |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Activated Dimeticone | Lactase Enzyme |
| Mechanism of Action | Combines small gas bubbles into larger, more easily passed ones. | Breaks down lactose in milk before feeding. |
| Underlying Cause | Trapped wind or gas. | Temporary lactose intolerance. |
| Preparation | Given directly to the baby via a syringe or added to a bottle, with or after a feed. | Added to expressed breast milk or warm formula before feeding. Requires a waiting period for formula. |
| Suitability | Suitable from birth. | Suitable from birth. |
When to choose which one
Choosing between Dentinox and Colief often depends on the suspected cause of the baby's discomfort. If a baby seems gassy, with frequent burping or flatulence issues, Dentinox may be the first port of call. However, if symptoms include prolonged, inconsolable crying after feeding, bloating, and watery stools (which can sometimes be a sign of lactose maldigestion), Colief may be more appropriate. Some health professionals may recommend a trial period for either treatment to see if it makes a difference, particularly as the exact cause of colic is often unknown. It is always best to consult a pharmacist or health visitor for guidance.
Can you use Dentinox and Colief together?
Since Dentinox and Colief address different potential causes of colic, they are not typically used together. It is generally not recommended to combine two colic remedies without first consulting a healthcare professional. Dentinox works on a physical level to disperse gas, while Colief works on a chemical level to break down lactose. Using both at the same time is unlikely to be more effective and may complicate efforts to determine which treatment, if any, is working. For guidance on appropriate treatments, refer to your health visitor or GP.
Potential side effects and considerations
Both products are generally considered safe, but like all medications and supplements, they have specific considerations.
- Dentinox: Side effects are uncommon, but some infants may experience an allergic reaction. The product contains sucrose, which may not be suitable for babies with certain sugar intolerances and can be harmful to teeth. It should also not be used if the baby is being treated for a thyroid disorder.
- Colief: The most reported 'side effect' is a change in stool pattern, where stools may become looser or more frequent, similar to those of a breastfed baby. This is a sign that the lactose is being digested and is generally not a cause for concern unless the baby is otherwise unwell.
Conclusion
While both Dentinox and Colief are popular over-the-counter remedies for infantile colic, they operate on completely different principles. Dentinox offers relief for trapped wind and gas with its activated dimeticone ingredient, whereas Colief addresses a potential underlying issue of temporary lactose intolerance with its lactase enzyme. The best choice depends on your baby's specific symptoms. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help you make an informed decision and ensure the safety and comfort of your baby. For more general advice on managing colic, you can visit the NHS website at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/colic/.
Disclaimer: Always read the product information leaflet and consult a healthcare professional before giving any new medication or supplement to your baby.
