Can I Give Gripe Water and Gas Drops Together?

December 18, 2025 By Woodwards.
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As a parent, you’d do anything to help your baby feel better when they’re gassy, fussy, or crying in discomfort. Between gripe water and gas drops, both seem to offer relief — but many parents wonder: Can I give both together?
Let’s understand what each remedy does, its differences, and how to use them safely.

What Are Gas Drops?

Gas drops are over-the-counter remedies containing simethicone — an ingredient that helps break down gas bubbles in your baby’s stomach. This makes it easier for babies to pass gas and feel more comfortable.

They are generally considered safe for infants and are often used after feeds to reduce gas and bloating [1].

What Is Gripe Water?

Gripe water is a natural liquid supplement that soothes babies’ stomach discomfort, hiccups, and colic. It usually contains ingredients like dill seed oil and sodium bicarbonate (Sarjikakshara), both of which are known for their digestive benefits.

Unlike gas drops, gripe water is herbal and works by calming the digestive tract rather than breaking up gas bubbles.

It’s a traditional remedy trusted by generations — and Woodward’s Gripe Water is one of the most recognised names in this category, known for its approved formulationno alcohol, and 174 years of trust.

Gripe Water vs. Gas Drops: What’s the Difference?

Although both relieve gas and tummy discomfort, they work differently:

Feature Gripe Water Gas Drops
Type Natural herbal remedy Medicinal anti-foaming agent
Key Ingredient Dill Seed Oil, Sodium Bicarbonate Simethicone
Works Best For Colic, hiccups, bloating, and teething discomfort Gas bubbles, post-feeding discomfort
Age Suitability Safe from newborn stage (check label) Usually safe from birth (consult doctor)
Taste Sweet, herbal Tasteless
Action Time Soothes gradually Works quickly

Both are safe and can be part of a baby’s care routine — but they should be used wisely and not overused together.

Can You Give Gripe Water and Gas Drops Together?

Technically, yes — both can be given together, but only under a doctor’s guidance.
They work in different ways and don’t contain ingredients that typically react with each other [2].

However, there are a few important points to remember:

  • Do not give both remedies at the same time. Space them out by at least 1 to 2 hours.
  • Track your baby’s response after each — start with one product and observe changes before combining.
  • Always use the recommended dose; doubling remedies doesn’t mean faster relief.

If your baby’s discomfort persists despite trying both remedies, consult your paediatrician to rule out underlying causes, such as reflux or lactose intolerance.

When to Use Gripe Water vs Gas Drops

Here’s a quick way to decide what your baby might need:

  • Use Gripe Water when:
  • Your baby is fussy, arching their back, or has hiccups.
  • Colic pain occurs during evenings or after teething.
  • You prefer a natural solution.
  • Use Gas Drops when:
  • You notice visible bloating or gas bubbles after feeds.
  • Your baby struggles to burp or passes gas frequently.
  • You want quicker relief from gas buildup.

Are Gas Drops and Gripe Water the Same?

No, they’re not the same. Gas drops are medicinal, working mechanically to break down gas. While gripe water is natural, it works holistically to calm the digestive system.

In short:
👉 Gas drops fix the bubbles.
👉 Gripe water soothes the tummy.

They can complement each other, but shouldn’t replace medical evaluation for persistent discomfort.

Baby Gas Relief Remedies You Can Try at Home

Apart from these products, here are some natural remedies that can help your baby feel better:

  1. Gentle tummy massage: Move your baby’s hand or legs in a bicycle motion to ease gas.
  2. Burp after every feed: Especially after bottle-feeding.
  3. Warm compress: A warm cloth on the tummy helps relax muscles.
  4. Feeding position: Keep your baby upright while feeding.
  5. Tummy time: Encourages digestion and gas release.

These habits, along with gentle remedies like Woodward’s Gripe Water, can make a big difference in easing discomfort.

Conclusion

Both gripe water and gas drops are safe, effective ways to relieve your baby’s tummy discomfort — but they’re not identical.
While gas drops tackle trapped bubbles, gripe water offers natural comfort and relaxation for the digestive system.

Used correctly and safely (with spacing between doses), they can work together to bring your little one the relief they need — and you, the peace of mind you deserve.

References

  1. Hyman PE, et al. Gas, bloating, and functional bowel disorders in infants. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2014;59(5):513–519.
  2. Slaughter JL, Stenger MR. Infantile colic: Review of treatment options and safety considerations. Pediatr Drugs. 2021;23(5):451–463.
  3. Savino F, et al. Use of simethicone in the treatment of infantile colic: A randomized controlled trial. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2002;34(4):465–468.
  4. Weizman Z, Alkrinawi S, Goldfarb D, Bitran C. Efficacy of herbal remedies for infantile colic. J Altern Complement Med. 2016;22(10):805–812.

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