There are no official guidelines to assist in answering this question. I will search for relevant research papers instead.
From the Research
Management of Infantile Colic
The management of infantile colic in neonates involves a multifaceted approach, including dietary changes, pharmacological interventions, and behavioral therapies.
- Dietary approaches, such as avoiding cow's milk proteins in breast-feeding mothers and bottle-fed infants, have shown promise in reducing colic symptoms 1, 2.
- The use of hypoallergenic formulas, such as extensively hydrolyzed protein formula, and partially hydrolyzed milk, may also be effective in managing infantile colic 2, 3.
- Pharmacological agents, such as Simethicone, have been investigated for their potential to reduce bloating and fussing in infants with colic, but their effectiveness is still being studied 1, 3.
- Behavioral interventions, including reassurance, changes to parental responsiveness, and the use of motion and sound to calm the infant, have also been shown to be effective in managing colic 2, 3.
- Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus reuteri (strain DSM 17938), may also be beneficial in reducing colic symptoms, particularly in breastfed infants 3.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for infantile colic vary depending on the individual case and may include:
- Switching to a hydrolyzed formula for formula-fed infants 3
- Reducing maternal dietary allergen intake for breastfed infants 3
- Using probiotics, such as Lactobacillus reuteri (strain DSM 17938) 3
- Avoiding cow's milk proteins and using partially hydrolyzed milk or extensively hydrolyzed protein formula 1, 2
- Behavioral interventions, such as reassurance and changes to parental responsiveness 2, 3
Ineffective Treatments
Some treatments have been shown to be ineffective or have limited evidence to support their use, including: