Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Woodward's Gripe Water - 150ml

Woodward's Gripe Water - 150ml

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Relieves baby wind, colic, and hiccups gently
  • ✔️ Contains dill seed oil to ease trapped gas naturally
  • ✔️ Sodium bicarbonate neutralises excess infant stomach acid
  • ✔️ Suitable for babies aged one month and over
  • ✔️ Alcohol-free and sucrose-free oral liquid formula

Price Checker

Regular price £4.00
Sale price £4.00
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is Woodward's Gripe Water and How Does It Help?

 

If you've ever spent an evening trying to soothe a crying, uncomfortable baby, you'll know how distressing it can be — for both of you. Woodward's gripe water has been a trusted name in British households for generations, offering gentle relief from the wind, colic, and digestive discomfort that can make the early months so challenging. Available over the counter without a prescription, this 150ml oral liquid is one of the most recognised infant remedies in the UK. You can find it alongside other baby and toddler essentials at Cured Pharmacy for just £4.00.

Colic and trapped wind are incredibly common in young babies. The NHS notes that colic affects around one in five babies, typically starting at a few weeks old and usually improving by four months. While the exact cause isn't always clear, digestive discomfort and gas are widely recognised contributing factors. Woodward's gripe water has been formulated to address these symptoms with a simple, time-tested combination of ingredients.

 

How Does Woodward's Gripe Water Work in the Body?

 

The formula works through two key active ingredients that complement each other:

  • Sodium bicarbonate — acts as a mild antacid, helping to neutralise excess stomach acid that can contribute to digestive discomfort and reflux-like symptoms in infants.
  • Dill seed oil — a natural carminative, meaning it helps relax the smooth muscle of the gut wall, allowing trapped gas bubbles to disperse more easily and reducing bloating and cramping sensations.

Together, these ingredients target the two main sources of infant digestive distress: excess acid and trapped wind. The liquid formulation means it's easy to administer using the measuring cup provided, and it's absorbed quickly once swallowed.

 

Who Is Woodward's Gripe Water Suitable For?

 

This product is designed specifically for infants experiencing common digestive complaints. It is suitable for:

  • Babies aged one month and over
  • Infants suffering from colic, wind, or hiccups
  • Babies showing signs of digestive discomfort after feeding
  • Parents looking for a non-prescription, liquid remedy that's easy to give

It is not suitable for newborns under one month old. If your baby has an underlying health condition, was born prematurely, or is taking other medicines, always speak to your GP or pharmacist before use.

 

How Does Woodward's Gripe Water Compare to Other Infant Wind Remedies?

 

Feature Woodward's Gripe Water Infacol (Simeticone Drops)
Active ingredient Sodium bicarbonate, Dill seed oil Simeticone 40mg/ml
Form Oral liquid (150ml) Oral drops (50ml)
Minimum age 1 month From birth
Mechanism Antacid + carminative Antifoaming agent — coalesces gas bubbles

 

How Should You Store Woodward's Gripe Water?

 

Store Woodward's gripe water below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Once opened, use within six months. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle. If you're also managing other digestive concerns in the family, you might find our indigestion range useful for adults alongside this product.

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.

Woodward's Gripe Water 150ml specifications
Treatment category Infant wind, colic, and digestive discomfort
Mechanism of action Antacid (sodium bicarbonate) and carminative (dill seed oil)
Effective for Wind, colic, hiccups, and mild digestive discomfort in infants
Suitable for Babies aged 1 month and over
Active ingredients Sodium bicarbonate, Dill seed oil
Pack size 150ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Antacid / Carminative
Preparation Oral liquid
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Woodward's Gripe Water 150ml

 

What Is Woodward's Gripe Water and What Is It Used For?

 

Woodward's Gripe Water is an oral liquid medicine used to relieve wind, colic, hiccups, and general digestive discomfort in babies aged one month and over. It contains two active ingredients — sodium bicarbonate and dill seed oil — which work together to ease the symptoms that can make feeding time and the hours afterwards so uncomfortable for young infants. It is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription from pharmacies and supermarkets.

Colic is defined by the NHS as episodes of crying for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for more than three weeks in an otherwise healthy baby. While gripe water won't cure colic, it can help manage the wind and digestive discomfort that often accompany it. If you're also looking for support with related digestive issues, our IBS and cramps collection covers a range of options for older family members.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Woodward's Gripe Water?

 

Before giving this product to your baby, read the following carefully:

Do not use Woodward's Gripe Water if your baby:

  • Is under one month old
  • Has a known allergy to any of the ingredients, including dill seed oil or sodium bicarbonate
  • Has been diagnosed with a kidney condition or metabolic alkalosis
  • Has been advised by a doctor to avoid sodium-containing products

Warnings and precautions:

  • Do not exceed the recommended dose — sodium bicarbonate can affect the body's acid-base balance if overused
  • Consult your GP or health visitor if your baby's symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by fever, vomiting, or blood in stools
  • Premature babies or those with underlying health conditions should only receive this product under medical supervision
  • This product contains sodium — relevant if your baby is on a sodium-restricted diet

Drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant interactions are established at recommended doses
  • Sodium bicarbonate may theoretically affect the absorption of some medicines if given simultaneously — leave a gap of at least two hours between gripe water and any other oral medicines
  • Always inform your pharmacist of any other medicines your baby is taking

 

How Should You Use Woodward's Gripe Water?

 

  1. Shake the bottle gently before use.
  2. Use the measuring cup provided to measure the correct dose.
  3. Give the dose orally, either directly into the baby's mouth or mixed with a small amount of cooled boiled water.
  4. Administer during or after feeding, not on an empty stomach.
  5. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose stated on the label.
  6. Replace the cap securely after use and store below 25°C.

Dosage guide:

Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Wind, colic, hiccups 1 month – 1 year 5ml Up to 3 times daily
Wind, colic, hiccups 1 year – 2 years 10ml Up to 3 times daily
Wind, colic, hiccups 2 years – 6 years 10ml Up to 3 times daily

Always follow the dosage instructions on the product label. If you are unsure about the correct dose for your baby's age and weight, speak to your pharmacist before use.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Woodward's Gripe Water?

 

Side effects with Woodward's Gripe Water are uncommon when used as directed. However, as with any medicine, reactions can occur. Stop use and seek medical advice if you notice anything unusual after giving this product to your baby.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 babies):

  • Mild nausea or regurgitation shortly after administration
  • Loose stools if given in excess of the recommended dose

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 babies):

  • Allergic skin reaction such as a rash or hives
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue (angioedema) — seek emergency help immediately if this occurs
  • Difficulty breathing — stop use and call 999 immediately

If you're concerned about any reaction, contact your GP or call NHS 111 for guidance. You can also find further digestive support products in our constipation range if your baby is experiencing related bowel issues.

 

How Should You Store Woodward's Gripe Water?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • 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 bottle or carton
  • Once opened, use within six months
  • Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink — moisture can affect the product

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Woodward's gripe water online in the UK?

You can buy Woodward's Gripe Water 150ml online from Cured Pharmacy for just £4.00, with fast UK delivery straight to your door. It's a General Sale List medicine, so no prescription is needed. It's also available from most high street pharmacies and supermarkets across the UK.

How does Woodward's gripe water work in the body?

Woodward's gripe water contains two active ingredients: sodium bicarbonate, which neutralises excess stomach acid, and dill seed oil, a natural carminative that helps relax the gut wall and disperse trapped gas bubbles. Together, they target the digestive discomfort and wind that cause colic-like symptoms in babies. The liquid is absorbed quickly after swallowing, which is why many parents notice results within minutes.

How do I give Woodward's gripe water to my baby step by step?

Shake the bottle gently, then use the measuring cup provided to measure the correct dose for your baby's age. Give the liquid orally — either directly into the mouth or mixed with a small amount of cooled boiled water — during or after a feed. Never give it on a completely empty stomach, and always replace the cap tightly after use.

What age can babies have Woodward's gripe water?

Woodward's gripe water is suitable for babies aged one month and over. It must not be given to newborns under one month old, as their kidneys and digestive systems are not yet mature enough to handle sodium bicarbonate safely. If your baby was born prematurely, always check with your GP or health visitor before use.

What is the correct dose of Woodward's gripe water for my baby?

For babies aged one month to one year, the recommended dose is 5ml up to three times daily. For children aged one to six years, the dose increases to 10ml up to three times daily. Always use the measuring cup provided and never exceed the maximum daily dose stated on the label.

How quickly does Woodward's gripe water work?

Many parents report that their baby settles within a few minutes of receiving gripe water, though individual responses vary. The dill seed oil begins to act as a carminative relatively quickly once absorbed. It's worth noting that gripe water provides symptomatic relief rather than treating an underlying cause, so results may differ between babies.

What are the side effects of Woodward's gripe water?

Side effects are uncommon at recommended doses. Occasionally, babies may experience mild regurgitation or loose stools, particularly if too much is given. Rarely, an allergic reaction can occur — signs include a rash, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing. Stop use immediately and seek emergency medical help if any of these occur.

Can I give Woodward's gripe water alongside other medicines?

No significant drug interactions are established at recommended doses, but sodium bicarbonate can theoretically affect the absorption of other oral medicines if given at the same time. It's advisable to leave at least a two-hour gap between gripe water and any other oral medication your baby is taking. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines your baby is currently receiving.

How long can I use Woodward's gripe water for?

Woodward's gripe water is intended for short-term, symptomatic use. If your baby's wind or colic symptoms persist beyond a few days, or if they seem to be getting worse rather than better, you should consult your GP or health visitor. Prolonged use of sodium bicarbonate-containing products is not recommended without medical guidance.

Is Woodward's gripe water safe for newborns?

No — Woodward's gripe water is not suitable for babies under one month old. Newborns have immature kidneys that cannot process sodium bicarbonate safely, which could disrupt their electrolyte balance. If your newborn is experiencing wind or digestive discomfort, speak to your midwife, health visitor, or GP for appropriate advice.

What are the alternatives to Woodward's gripe water?

The most commonly used alternative is Infacol, which contains simeticone — an antifoaming agent that coalesces small gas bubbles into larger ones that are easier to pass. Unlike gripe water, Infacol can be used from birth. Your pharmacist can help you decide which option is most appropriate for your baby's specific symptoms. You can also explore our baby and toddler range for other infant health products.

Does Woodward's gripe water contain alcohol or sugar?

The current formulation of Woodward's Gripe Water is alcohol-free and does not contain sucrose, making it more suitable for regular use in infants than older formulations. Always check the current product label for the full list of excipients, as formulations can occasionally change. If your baby has any known sensitivities, speak to your pharmacist before use.

Can I use Woodward's gripe water for hiccups in babies?

Yes — Woodward's gripe water is indicated for hiccups as well as wind and colic. Hiccups in babies are often caused by irritation of the diaphragm related to feeding and trapped air, and the carminative action of dill seed oil may help ease this. Give the appropriate dose as directed on the label and monitor your baby's response.

What should I do if my baby's colic doesn't improve with gripe water?

If your baby's symptoms don't improve after a few days of use, or if they are accompanied by fever, blood in stools, persistent vomiting, or poor weight gain, you should contact your GP promptly. Colic can sometimes be a sign of an underlying condition such as cow's milk protein allergy or reflux that requires specific medical management. Gripe water is a symptomatic remedy and is not a substitute for professional medical assessment.

What does the latest research say about gripe water for colic?

Evidence for gripe water specifically is limited, and the NHS notes that no single treatment has been proven to cure colic. Some small studies suggest herbal carminatives like dill may offer modest symptomatic benefit, but robust clinical trial data is lacking. Most healthcare professionals recommend gripe water as a supportive measure alongside other soothing strategies such as gentle movement and skin-to-skin contact. If you're managing broader digestive concerns in the family, our sickness and nausea range may also be of interest.

How Should You Use Woodward's Gripe Water?

Always read the label before giving Woodward's Gripe Water to your baby. Shake the bottle gently before each use to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. Use only the measuring cup provided — household spoons are not accurate enough for infant medicines.

What Is the Correct Dose of Woodward's Gripe Water?

The dose varies depending on your baby's age. Never exceed the maximum daily dose, and always use the measuring cup provided rather than estimating. If you are unsure which dose applies to your baby, speak to your pharmacist before use.

When Is the Best Time to Use Woodward's Gripe Water?

Woodward's Gripe Water is most effective when given during or immediately after a feed, when digestive discomfort and wind are most likely to occur. Giving it at this point allows the active ingredients to act on the stomach contents directly, rather than on an empty gut. If your baby tends to become unsettled at a predictable time — such as in the evening, which is common with colic — you may find it helpful to give a dose just before or during that feed.

How Long Can You Use Woodward's Gripe Water For?

Woodward's Gripe Water is intended for short-term, symptomatic relief of wind, colic, and hiccups. It is not designed for continuous daily use over extended periods. If your baby's symptoms have not improved after a few days of use, or if they appear to be getting worse, stop using the product and consult your GP or health visitor. Persistent crying, poor feeding, or other concerning symptoms should always be assessed by a healthcare professional rather than managed with over-the-counter remedies alone.

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

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Woodward's Gripe Water?

When used at the recommended dose, Woodward's Gripe Water is generally well tolerated by most babies. Side effects are uncommon, but as with any medicine, they can occur. The most frequently reported reactions are mild and tend to resolve quickly once the product is stopped or the dose is adjusted.

  • Mild regurgitation or posseting shortly after administration
  • Loose stools, particularly if the dose is exceeded
  • Temporary increase in wind as gas is displaced

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Woodward's Gripe Water?

Less commonly, some babies may experience reactions that require you to stop use and seek advice. These are rare at recommended doses but should not be ignored if they occur.

  • Skin rash or hives (urticaria)
  • Redness or itching of the skin
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Woodward's Gripe Water?

Serious side effects are very rare but require immediate medical attention. If your baby develops swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or becomes unresponsive after receiving gripe water, call 999 immediately. These signs may indicate a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which is a medical emergency. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own.

Overuse of sodium bicarbonate-containing products can, in theory, cause metabolic alkalosis — a disruption of the body's acid-base balance. This is why it is important never to exceed the recommended dose and to use the product only for short periods.

What Should You Do If Your Baby Experiences Side Effects?

If you notice any mild side effects such as regurgitation or loose stools, stop giving the product and monitor your baby. These effects usually resolve without treatment. For any signs of an allergic reaction — rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty — stop use immediately and seek emergency medical help. You can also call NHS 111 for non-emergency guidance. Always report suspected side effects to your GP or pharmacist so they can be recorded appropriately.

Can Woodward's Gripe Water Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been established at the recommended doses of Woodward's Gripe Water. However, sodium bicarbonate can theoretically alter the absorption of other oral medicines if given at the same time. To minimise any potential interaction, leave a gap of at least two hours between gripe water and any other oral medicine your baby is taking. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines — including vitamins and supplements — that your baby is currently receiving.

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

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery