Infant Reflux Drugs infographic | HealthInfi

Are Infant Reflux Drugs Worth the Risks?

The number of babies prescribed acid suppression drugs such as H2 blockers and PPIs grew 8-fold during 2002 to 2009, but fewer than 10% received any diagnostic testing for GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Some pediatricians are growing concerned that the “epidemic” of infant GERD cases is actually due to over-diagnosis, especially since clinical trials show acid blockers work no better than a placebo and can actually lead to short term and long term side effects. The FDA has not approved PPIs for treatment of GERD in children younger than one year.

This week, the makers of Colic Calm released a new infographic (below) that highlights the dramatic rise in infant reflux and GERD diagnoses in recent years, as well as the risks and long-term health effects for babies that are taking prescription reflux drugs.

Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease or GERD, is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach. GERD in Infants Spitting up (GER or “reflux” the backward flow of stomach contents up into the esophagus or the mouth) is normal in most infants as their immature digestive systems develop.

It is self-resolving in almost all infants by 1 year of age. GERD is rare and more serious and occurs when complications from GER arise, such as failure to gain weight, respiratory problems and esophagitis. Diagnosis of GERD: There are two main indicators of GERD: Spitting Up “Up to 70% of infants spit up on a daily basis.”Read More