Management of infantile colic.

Colic, or persistent unexplained crying in infants, is a disorder commonly encountered by the family physician. Although colic is not detrimental to an infant's health, it can place tremendous stress on the family. No effective cure for this disorder is known. Researchers have investigated a wide variety of therapies, including formula changes, pharmacotherapy and infant positioning maneuvers, but study results have been conflicting, controversial and inconclusive. At present, behavioral management, supportive counseling and parental reassurance are the mainstays of treatment. By formulating an effective individualized management plan, the family physician can help assist parents through the trying period of infantile colic.