Update: All rectal catheters (gas and colic relievers): do not use in infants

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published a Device Safety Information alert. Do not use rectal catheters in infants, including for colic, gas-related discomfort or constipation. This has been updated since its original publication on 18 August 2026 to reflect that the recommendations apply to rectal catheters sold for personal use, and the advice is not applicable to rectal catheters used for specialist medical treatment.

This advice is not applicable for rectal catheters that are used for specialist medical treatment for conditions such as Hirschsprung’s, meconium ileus and gastroschisis where parents/caregivers have been trained by healthcare professionals.

Further information, advice and an explanation of the identified safety issue can be found on the MHRA website.