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Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops

Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops

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  • ✔️ Breaks down lactose in milk before every feed
  • ✔️ Reduces infant colic crying linked to lactose intolerance
  • ✔️ Suitable for breastfed and formula-fed babies from birth
  • ✔️ Enzyme acts in milk — not absorbed into baby's bloodstream
  • ✔️ Easy 4-drop dose added to every feed

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What Are Colief Infant Drops and How Do They Help Baby Colic?

 

If your baby cries inconsolably after feeds, draws their knees up, or seems in real discomfort, you are not alone. Infant colic affects roughly one in five babies in the UK, and it can be exhausting for the whole family. Colief infant drops are an over-the-counter lactase enzyme supplement designed to help reduce colic symptoms that may be linked to temporary lactose intolerance in newborns and young infants. Available from our baby and toddler range at Cured Pharmacy, they offer a practical, clinician-recommended option for parents looking for relief.

Lactose is the natural sugar found in both breast milk and standard infant formula. Some babies, particularly in the early weeks of life, produce lower levels of the enzyme lactase in their gut. This means lactose is not fully broken down before it reaches the large intestine, where it can ferment and cause gas, bloating, and the characteristic crying associated with colic. Colief works by supplementing this enzyme directly in the feed.

 

How Do Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops Work?

 

The mechanism is straightforward. Each drop of Colief contains lactase enzyme, which pre-digests the lactose in milk before your baby swallows it. By reducing the lactose load reaching the gut, there is less fermentation, less gas production, and — for many families — noticeably less crying.

  • Lactase enzyme is added directly to expressed breast milk or prepared formula
  • The enzyme begins breaking down lactose during a short standing period before the feed
  • Reduced lactose reaches the small intestine, limiting fermentation in the large bowel
  • Symptoms such as bloating, wind, and prolonged crying may decrease over time

It is worth noting that Colief does not treat all causes of colic — colic is a complex condition with multiple possible contributors. However, for babies whose symptoms appear to be linked to lactose digestion, it can make a meaningful difference.

 

Who Should Use Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

 

Colief is intended for infants who show signs of colic that may be related to temporary lactose intolerance. It is suitable for use from birth and can be used alongside both breastfeeding and formula feeding. Always speak to your health visitor, GP, or pharmacist before starting, particularly if your baby has any underlying health conditions.

  • Newborns and young infants with colic symptoms after feeds
  • Breastfed babies whose mothers wish to continue breastfeeding
  • Formula-fed infants on standard (lactose-containing) formula
  • Babies where other causes of distress have been ruled out by a healthcare professional

Colief is not suitable for infants diagnosed with galactosaemia, a rare inherited metabolic disorder. If you are unsure whether your baby's symptoms are colic-related, always seek professional advice first.

 

How Does Colief Compare to Other Infant Colic Remedies?

 

Feature Colief Infant Drops Simethicone Drops (e.g. Infacol)
Active ingredient Lactase enzyme Simethicone
Mechanism Pre-digests lactose in milk Reduces surface tension of gas bubbles
Added to feed? Yes — added before feeding No — given directly to baby
Suitable from birth? Yes Yes

 

How Should Colief Infant Drops Be Stored and Handled?

 

Before opening, colief infant drops can be stored at room temperature below 25°C. Once opened, the bottle must be kept in the refrigerator at 2–8°C and used within 30 days. Do not freeze the drops, as this can damage the enzyme. Always check the expiry date on the packaging before use, and keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

If you are managing other aspects of your baby's health alongside digestive concerns, you may also find it helpful to explore our vitamins and supplements section for products relevant to infant and maternal nutrition.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops specifications
Treatment category Infant colic / digestive support
Mechanism of action Lactase enzyme pre-digests lactose in milk before feeding
Effective for Colic symptoms associated with temporary lactose intolerance in infants
Suitable for Newborns and infants from birth
Active ingredient Lactase enzyme
Pack sizes 7 ml
UK classification General Sale Medicine (GSL)
Drug class Digestive enzyme supplement
Preparation Oral drops
Route of administration Oral (added to expressed breast milk or formula)

Specifications of Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops

 

What Is Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops and What Is It Used For?

 

Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops is an oral digestive enzyme supplement for babies. It contains lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose — the sugar naturally present in breast milk and most standard infant formulas. When a baby temporarily produces insufficient lactase in their gut, undigested lactose can ferment in the large intestine, producing gas and causing the prolonged crying, bloating, and discomfort associated with infant colic.

Colief is used to reduce these symptoms by pre-treating milk with lactase before each feed. It does not change the nutritional composition of the milk in any meaningful way and does not require you to switch from breastfeeding or standard formula. The NHS notes that colic is common and usually resolves on its own by around three to four months of age, but products like Colief may help manage symptoms in the interim.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

 

Before using Colief, it is important to be aware of the following contraindications and precautions:

  • Do not use in infants with galactosaemia — a rare inherited condition where the body cannot process galactose (a product of lactose breakdown)
  • Do not use if your baby is allergic to any of the ingredients in the formulation
  • Consult your GP or health visitor if your baby's symptoms are severe, worsening, or accompanied by blood in stools, vomiting, or poor weight gain
  • Colic symptoms can sometimes indicate an underlying condition — always rule out other causes with a healthcare professional before starting treatment

Regarding drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant drug interactions with Colief have been identified
  • If your baby is taking any prescribed medicines, speak to your pharmacist before use

 

How Should You Use Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

 

The method of use differs slightly depending on whether you are breastfeeding or formula feeding. Follow these steps carefully to get the most from each dose.

For breastfed babies:

  1. Express a small amount of breast milk (approximately 1 teaspoon / 5 ml) into a sterilised container
  2. Add 4 drops of Colief to the expressed milk
  3. Stir gently and feed this treated milk to your baby using a sterilised spoon or dropper before breastfeeding
  4. Then breastfeed as normal

For formula-fed babies:

  1. Prepare the formula feed as directed on the packaging
  2. Allow the feed to cool to body temperature (approximately 37°C)
  3. Add 4 drops of Colief to the prepared formula
  4. Leave to stand for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator before feeding
  5. Warm the feed again if needed and feed as normal
Feeding Method Age Group Dose Frequency
Breastfeeding Newborn and infant 4 drops per feed Before every feed
Formula feeding Newborn and infant 4 drops per feed Added to each prepared bottle

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

 

Colief is generally very well tolerated. Because it is an enzyme rather than a drug, systemic side effects are not expected. However, as with any product given to a young infant, it is worth knowing what to look out for.

Common side effects:

  • Loose or slightly more frequent stools — this can occur as lactose is more efficiently broken down

Less common side effects:

  • Mild digestive discomfort during the initial period of use
  • Allergic reactions are rare but possible — stop use immediately and seek medical advice if you notice rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty

If your baby's symptoms do not improve after one week of consistent use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using Colief and speak to your GP or health visitor. You can also explore our sickness and nausea section for other products that may support your baby's digestive comfort.

 

How Should You Store Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

 

  • Before opening: store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
  • After opening: refrigerate at 2–8°C and use within 30 days
  • Do not freeze — freezing will deactivate the lactase enzyme
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label
  • Do not store in the bathroom or near a heat source

For parents managing broader family health needs, our baby and toddler collection includes a range of products to support infant wellbeing from the earliest weeks of life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Colief infant drops online in the UK?

You can buy Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops directly from Cured Pharmacy for just £9.49, with no prescription required. It is a General Sale Medicine available over the counter. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door — browse our full baby and toddler range for more infant health products.

How do Colief infant drops work in the body?

Colief contains lactase enzyme, which breaks down lactose — the natural sugar in breast milk and formula — before your baby swallows it. This reduces the amount of undigested lactose reaching the large intestine, where it would otherwise ferment and produce gas. Less fermentation means less bloating, wind, and the prolonged crying associated with colic.

How do I use Colief infant drops step by step?

For breastfeeding, express around a teaspoon of milk, add 4 drops of Colief, and give this to your baby before the feed. For formula, prepare the bottle as normal, cool it to body temperature, add 4 drops, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before warming and feeding. Always use a sterilised dropper or spoon when handling the drops.

What is the correct dose of Colief infant drops for my baby?

The recommended dose is 4 drops per feed, used at every feed throughout the day. There is no age-based dose variation — the same 4-drop dose applies from birth onwards. If you are unsure whether the dose is appropriate for your baby's weight or feeding pattern, speak to your pharmacist or health visitor.

When is the best time to use Colief infant drops?

Colief should be added to every feed, not just some of them, to maintain consistent lactose reduction throughout the day. For formula-fed babies, it works best when added at least 30 minutes before feeding so the enzyme has time to act. For breastfed babies, it is added to a small amount of expressed milk given just before the feed begins.

What are the side effects of Colief infant drops?

Colief is generally very well tolerated in infants. The most commonly reported change is slightly looser stools, which occurs because lactose is being broken down more efficiently. Serious side effects are rare, but if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction — such as a rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty — stop use immediately and seek medical advice.

How do I manage side effects of Colief infant drops?

If your baby develops loose stools, this usually settles within a few days as their digestive system adjusts. Ensure you are using the correct dose and that the drops are being stored properly in the fridge after opening. If side effects persist or concern you, contact your GP or pharmacist for guidance.

Who is eligible to use Colief infant drops?

Colief is suitable for newborns and infants from birth who experience colic symptoms that may be related to temporary lactose intolerance. It can be used by both breastfed and formula-fed babies. It is not suitable for infants with galactosaemia, and you should always consult a healthcare professional if you are unsure whether colic is the correct diagnosis.

What happens if I miss a dose of Colief infant drops?

If you forget to add Colief to a feed, simply continue as normal with the next feed and add the drops then. Do not add a double dose to compensate for a missed one. Missing an occasional feed is unlikely to cause harm, but consistent use at every feed gives the best results.

What are alternatives to Colief infant drops for baby colic?

Alternatives include simethicone-based drops such as Infacol, which work differently by reducing gas bubble surface tension rather than breaking down lactose. Lactose-free formula is another option for formula-fed babies. Your GP or health visitor can help you decide which approach is most appropriate based on your baby's specific symptoms. You can also explore our IBS and cramps section for digestive health products for older family members.

How long do you use Colief infant drops for?

Colief is typically used until colic symptoms resolve, which for most babies happens naturally between three and four months of age. Some parents use it for a shorter period if symptoms improve sooner. There is no fixed maximum duration, but if symptoms persist beyond four months, speak to your GP to rule out other causes.

Can I use Colief infant drops with any type of formula?

Colief is designed for use with standard lactose-containing infant formulas. It is not needed with lactose-free formula, as that milk has already had the lactose removed. It is also not appropriate for use with soya-based formula, which does not contain lactose. Always check the formula ingredients if you are unsure.

Is Colief safe to use from birth?

Yes, Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops are suitable for use from birth. The lactase enzyme is not absorbed into the bloodstream — it acts locally within the milk itself before the baby feeds. This makes it a well-tolerated option even for very young newborns, though you should always consult your midwife, health visitor, or GP before starting any new product in the newborn period.

What are the latest studies on lactase enzyme drops for infant colic?

Research into lactase enzyme supplementation for infant colic has shown promising results in reducing crying time in some infants, particularly those with signs of lactose malabsorption. However, the evidence base is still developing, and colic is a multifactorial condition. The NHS recommends discussing all treatment options with a healthcare professional rather than self-treating based on research alone.

How should Colief infant drops be stored after opening?

Once opened, Colief must be stored in the refrigerator at 2–8°C and used within 30 days. Do not freeze the drops, as this will deactivate the lactase enzyme and make the product ineffective. Before opening, the bottle can be kept at room temperature below 25°C. Always check the expiry date before each use.

How Should You Use Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

Using Colief correctly at every feed is key to getting the best results. The drops are not given directly into your baby's mouth on their own — they must always be added to milk first. Follow these steps carefully each time you prepare a feed.

What Is the Correct Dose of Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

The dose of Colief does not vary by age or weight — the same amount is used from birth onwards. It is important to use the drops at every feed rather than selectively, as consistent use gives the most reliable reduction in lactose load across the day.

When Is the Best Time to Use Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

For formula-fed babies, the best time to add Colief is immediately after the bottle has cooled to body temperature — this gives the enzyme the full 30-minute standing time it needs to break down the lactose effectively before the feed. For breastfed babies, prepare the treated expressed milk just before you sit down to feed so it is ready to give at the start of the feed.

Consistency matters more than timing. Using Colief at every single feed — day and night — gives the most consistent reduction in symptoms. Skipping feeds occasionally will reduce the overall benefit.

How Long Can You Use Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops For?

Colief can be used for as long as your baby experiences colic symptoms. For most infants, colic naturally improves between three and four months of age, at which point you may find you no longer need the drops. Some parents gradually reduce use as symptoms ease to see whether the drops are still needed.

If your baby's symptoms have not improved after one week of consistent use, or if they persist beyond four months of age, speak to your GP or health visitor. There may be another cause for your baby's distress that requires a different approach.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

Colief is generally very well tolerated in infants, and serious side effects are uncommon. Because the lactase enzyme acts within the milk rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream, systemic effects are not expected. The most frequently reported change parents notice is a difference in stool consistency.

  • Loose or slightly more frequent stools — this occurs because lactose is being broken down more efficiently, altering the fermentation pattern in the gut
  • Increased wind in the short term as the digestive system adjusts

These changes are usually mild and tend to settle within a few days of starting the drops. If they persist or cause concern, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

Less commonly, some infants may experience mild digestive discomfort during the initial period of use. This is not always easy to distinguish from the colic symptoms you are trying to treat, so it is worth keeping a simple diary of feeding times and crying episodes to track whether things are improving.

  • Mild abdominal discomfort or unsettled behaviour in the first few days
  • Changes in stool colour or odour — these are generally not clinically significant

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

Serious side effects with Colief are rare. However, as with any product given to a young infant, you should be alert to signs of an allergic reaction. Allergic responses to lactase enzyme preparations are uncommon but have been reported.

Stop using Colief immediately and seek urgent medical attention if your baby shows any of the following:

  • Skin rash, hives, or redness
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Sudden change in behaviour or extreme drowsiness

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops?

For mild side effects such as loose stools, no specific action is usually needed beyond monitoring your baby and ensuring you are using the correct dose. Make sure the drops are being stored correctly in the refrigerator after opening, as improperly stored drops may be less effective.

If you are concerned about any side effect — however minor it seems — do not hesitate to contact your pharmacist, GP, or health visitor. You can also report suspected side effects of any medicine to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Colief Lactase Enzyme Infant Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions with Colief have been identified. The lactase enzyme acts locally within the milk and is not absorbed into the body in meaningful amounts, which means interactions with other medicines are considered unlikely. However, if your baby is taking any prescribed medication — particularly for a metabolic or digestive condition — always inform your pharmacist before starting Colief. This is especially important for infants with galactosaemia, for whom Colief is contraindicated.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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