I have heard that Gaviscon becomes ineffective when babies become more active. Is it true that it forms a 'soapy' layer to form on top of the milk in their tummy which is disturbed when they roll around? My daughter is now five months old and therefore all over the place! Is it therefore doing her any good?

April has recently been prescribed Ranitidine by her GP to help with the acid. He was quite vague as to when is best to administer it, he just said 1ml of 150mg/10ml syrup twice daily. Would you be able to advise as to whether before, during or after feeding is best. Also, my daughter has always displayed symptoms to suggest Delayed Gastric Emptying, will this medication interfere?

Thank you for your help!

Gemma

Gemma, regarding the Gaviscon, it's action as an antacid is still like the others so regarless of the motion of the patient it should help neutralize the stomach acid. The Gaviscon has an extra benefit of the protective layer you mentioned but that is secondary to the antacid activity and should still work as the baby moves around. Keep in mind that the more active anyone is (esp a baby), the more likely things may come back up particularly if the positioning of the baby is not upright.
Give the zantac 30-15 minutes before a feeding and space it apart as much as you can to 12 hours. The nighttime dose may prove to be the most crucial.
Delayed gastric emptying should not be an issue with either product.