Study Summary
Improved impact on clinical outcomes and reduced cost of care associated with switching hypoallergenic amino acid-based formulas
Thakkar K., Cekola P., Boccella J., Desai A., Kumar P., Mondal S., Vijaykadam Y., Samal C., Klosterbuer A. Sage Open Pediatrics 2025;12: 1–11.
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Objective
To evaluate the impact of switching amino acid‑based formula (AAF) on clinical outcomes including GI intolerance, allergy symptoms, and health economic measures during the 2022 U.S. formula shortage.
Study Design
402 children, <18 years, in a post‑acute care setting who switched from one AAF (EleCare®) to another (Alfamino®) from June 2021–April 2022.
Results
Discussion & Conclusion
■ Alfamino® had a greater % of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) as total fat than the other AAF, and it is possible that this may have attributed to improved GI symptoms as MCTs help with fat absorption. Children in post - acute care settings who transitioned to an alternate amino acid - based formula (Alfamino®) experienced significantly improved clinical outcomes, healthcare visits and associated costs.
Alfamino® formulas were associated with 58% less reports of GI intolerance^ symptoms after switching from Elecare® formulas^^
Alfamino® hypoallergenic amino acid-based formulas are made with the highest % MCTs among amino acid-based formulas for infants and children with multiple food allergies and malabsorptive conditions.
*Percentage of overall fat content as MCT
^ GI intolerance symptoms included abdominal distension, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence and nausea & vomiting
^^148 patients pre-switch vs. 61 patients at 1 month post-switch
Elecare is a registered trademark of Abbott Laboratories.
Study summary prepared by Nestlé Health Science.
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