Health Update: Colic shock

A DRUG used to treat colic in babies works no better than a placebo, according to a US study published in Pediatrics. Simethicone, an anti-flatulent, is thought to help expel bubbles of gas from the intestine and is contained in infant colic drops sold over the counter. But in a study of 83 colicky babies, doctors found it was ineffective: 28 per cent given Simethicone improved, compared with 37 per cent given a placebo.