The January 2007 issue of a popular parents’ magazine featured a small article about reflux drugs and babies, called “Do Drugs Help Babies with Reflux?” At first read, one might assume that the author of the article is implying that babies shouldn’t be treated with medication for reflux, because a recent study has found that these reflux medications have little or no benefit for babies at current doses. However, after a deeper investigation, the reader may realize that yes, these reflux medications are often under-dosed for babies and children, but by no means should we allow a baby and his or her family to suffer without appropriate reflux treatment.

Below is our letter to the editor, in response to that article.

Thank you for mentioning acid reflux in children in your January 2007 issue. Acid reflux effects up to 3 million newborns each year in the U.S. This is an important issue for many parents.

In your article, Dr. Kaul notes that acid-reducing medications at current doses may not be effective in children. We agree. Many children are given sub-optimal doses of reflux medication which leaves parents in a terrible quandary.

When appropriate, the effective dosing of reflux medications can have a huge positive effect on the baby with reflux and the family. We know this from research and treatment of our own son.

Tracy and Mike Davenport
Co-Authors
Making Life Better for a Child
With Acid Reflux