Abbott and Mead Johnson have had formulas and milk fortifier products featuring cow’s milk on the market across the country for over 40 years. However, since 1990 studies have started to show a correlation between the use of cow’s milk in baby formula and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature babies. Despite this, neither company took steps to warn hospitals or parents of the potential risks.
What Is NEC (Necrotizing Enterocolitis)?
Necrotizing Enterocolitis, or NEC for short, is a potentially fatal gastrointestinal condition which is characterized by the death of the tissues of the intestinal tract. This necrotization of the intestinal wall causes inflammation and perforation of walls in the intestine. This allows for bacteria to leak into the body and the bloodstream, which causes further illness and even sepsis.
For a free legal consultation with a NEC Baby Formula lawyer serving Gulfport, call 800-537-8185
Has There Been a Recall on Similac or Enfamil Baby Formulas?
At the time of publishing, the answer is no. Neither Enfamil nor Similac have been recalled voluntarily or by the FDA. There has been recalls on these products in the past, however, they have all been unrelated.
Did Similac or Enfamil Feature Warnings about NEC?
Sadly, up to the time of the lawsuit neither Enfamil and Similac products include any warnings about NEC as a side effect for premature infants. Contrarily, both products were instead marketed as safe for premature babies, despite the greatly increased risk of NEC.
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What Baby Formulas Increase the Risk of NEC?
Based on recent studies, it is believed that any baby formula or fortifier products that include cow’s milk will increase the risk of NEC in premature infants. However, below is each baby formula currently listed in the NEC lawsuit.
- Enfacare Powder
- Enfamil 24 and DHA & ARA Supplement
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier Acidified Liquid
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier Liquid High Protein
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier Powder
- Enfamil Milk Fortifier Liquid Standard Protein
- Enfamil NeuroPro Enfacare
- Enfamil Premature 20 Cal
- Enfamil Premature 24 Cal
- Enfamil Premature 24 Cal/fl oz HP
- Enfamil Premature 30 Cal
- Similac Alimentum
- Similac Alimentum Expert Care
- Similac Human Milk Fortifier
- Similac Human Milk Fortifier Concentrated Liquid
- Similac Human Milk Fortifier Hydrolyzed Protein- Concentrated Liquid
- Similac Human Milk Fortifier Powder
- Similac Liquid Protein Fortifier
- Similac NeoSure
- Similac Special Care
- Similac Special Care 20
- Similac Special Care 24
- Similac Special Care 24 High Protein
- Similac Special Care 30
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of NEC?
NEC is a condition affecting internal organs and therefor is not easily detectable. Since the victims are also unable to communicate, it is important for parents and caregivers to carefully monitor premature infants for the signs and symptoms of NEC. These include:
- Irritability
- Pain
- Abdominal distension
- Hyperthermia
- Tachycardia
- Decreased bowel sounds
- Lethargy
- Reduced urine output
- Elevated white blood cell counts
- Tenderness
- Portal venous gas
- Greenish discoloration
- Worsening or persistent thrombocytopenia
- Completely gasless abdomen
- Repeated feeding intolerance
- Intestinal strictures
- Passage of meconium through patent processus vaginalitis
- Fixed and dilated loop on serial abdominal radiographs
Have You Been Affected by Necrotizing Enterocolitis?
Parents who have premature children that have experienced complications or death due to Necrotizing Enterocolitis after using Similac or Enfamil may be entitled to compensation.
For a free case review with a Gulfport NEC Attorney, fill out our evaluation form or call us at (800)537-8185.
The experienced mass tort attorneys at Morris Bart can assist you in the case evaluation process. We represent victims beyond Gulfport as we have office locations throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas. Therefore, if you are from New Orleans, a dangerous drug attorney from our team can offer legal guidance.
For a free case review with a Gulfport NEC Attorney, fill out our evaluation form or call our legal team. Contact us today!
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
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