Zantac, Breastfeeding, Reflux

Do we really need Zantac? Things come in spurts and these past few weeks, it seems I've seen an increase in breastfed babies being treated for reflux with pharmaceuticals like Zantac, Axid, and Propulsid.

As far back, as I can remember working in hospital nurseries, babies have always been treated with Zantac. Zantac and head elevation has been the first line of treatment for reflux and regurgitation in young babies. It's just that now it seems like more mothers are questioning this treatment. Not until I got involved with breastfeeding did I learn that reflux and vomiting in an otherwise thriving breastfed baby can often be corrected with simple changes in hold, positions, and patterns of breastfeeding. If the baby is getting formula supplements, eliminating the formula is the first thing to do. NEVER was that mentioned in my earlier nursery days. But other things to consider are oversupply and fast let-down (more common than you would think) and sensitivities to something in the mother's diet. Zantac and these other medications just cover the problem! They do not resolve the underlying issue.

I've had breastfeeding moms come to me in various stages of "awareness." Those that know the prescription doesn't work and want other options. And moms convinced that the baby has serious medical problems and it is almost a challenge to reassure them that simple breastfeeding techniques can control the problem.

I imagine many babies on diets of formula unfortunately may need Zantac when breastmilk isn't an option. There are many babies in a Pediatrician's practice on formula, so the doctor is 'comfortable' with using Zantac. I am not.

Babies loosing weight may have other issues to consider (latch and transfer). But in the thriving breastfed baby, prescription medication should never be the first line of treatment for reflux and regurgitation.