Infant formula is ubiquitous in the United States. Almost one in five breastfed infants are supplemented with formula within two days of birth. By three months of age, about 54% of infants receive formula exclusively or to supplement breast milk. By six months of age, 74% of infants have received at least supplemental formula.
Sadly, many parents are unaware of the risks that baby formula like Similac can pose. In recent years, there have been numerous reports of mild to severe side effects linked to Similac and other cow’s milk formulas.
Here is what you should know about Similac baby formula side effects and risk factors for serious side effects and complications.
Cronobacter and Necrotizing Enterocolitis: Dangerous Side Effects of Similac Baby Formula
A review in Obstetrics & Gynecology highlighted the increased risk of several affections among formula-fed infants, such as:
- Infections
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Leukemia
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most serious highlighted risk of cow’s milk formulas like Similac.
Necrotizing enterocolitis is a life-threatening condition caused by bacterial invasion of the intestinal wall. This infection causes necrosis of the intestine and colon. If it is not caught early, it can lead to intestinal perforation, peritonitis, sepsis, and death. The overall mortality rate is 10% to 50%, but it approaches almost 100% fatal in severe cases with perforation and sepsis.
The main risk factors for NEC are low birth weight, premature birth, and formula feeding.
This gastrointestinal condition usually occurs during an infant’s second to third week of life. About 70% of cases occur in premature infants. Between 2% and 5% of all premature babies develop NEC, and it is responsible for 8% of NICU admissions.
Preterm infants have a 2.4-fold increased risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis compared to babies breastfed for at least three months. The absolute risk difference is 5%.
Another serious but less common risk is Cronobacter sakazakii contamination. This food-borne pathogen typically infects premature infants, causing NEC, sepsis, and meningitis. While the pathogen is rare, it’s linked to NEC outbreaks and has a high fatality rate. In 2022, Similac manufacturer Abbott issued a recall for formula contaminated with Cronobacter sakazakii. The recalled formula was linked to two infant deaths.
The Symptoms of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
The signs and symptoms of NEC can be mild to severe. Unfortunately, the symptoms can also be vague and difficult to recognize at first.
Symptoms may include:
- Diarrhea with bloody stool
- Yellow or green vomit
- Abdominal swelling and pain
- Shallow breathing, apnea, or low respiration rate
- Slowed or low heart rate
- Low blood pressure or shock
- Lethargy
- Failure to thrive or lack of weight gain
- Poor feeding or lack of appetite
The sooner it’s treated, the greater the chance of survival. Potential complications include:
- Abdominal infection
- Sepsis
- Developmental delay
- Growth failure
One in three infants develop intestinal strictures that may require surgery. It can also cause short gut syndrome, a condition that requires lifelong care.
Other Side Effects of Similac Baby Formula
Similac infant formula may cause other side effects in babies. The most common side effects are digestive problems, such as upset stomach, diarrhea, and constipation.
These symptoms can be caused by:
- Contamination during manufacturing or preparation
- Incorrectly prepared formula
- Allergies
- Food sensitivities
- Congenital or genetic conditions
- Weakened immune system
- Difficulty digesting the large proteins in cow’s milk
Cow’s milk is a common ingredient in baby formulas, including Similac. Up to 7% of infants under 12 months of age have cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA). Most children eventually resolve this allergy. In rare cases, allergic infants may develop swelling of the throat, hives, and vomiting.
You Might Have a Legal Claim If Your Child Suffered Harm From Ingesting Similac Baby Formula
Did your child suffer a serious illness or injury such as NEC after ingesting Similac formula? You may have a product liability claim. In Florida, manufacturers can be held liable for defects in the manufacturing, warning, or instruction of their products. This includes failing to warn consumers about the known risks of the product. We’re here to help you explore your legal options. Contact us for a free consultation with a Clearwater personal injury lawyer to discuss your case and how we can assist you.
Contact the Clearwater Product Liability Law Firm of Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact the legal team of Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation with a product liability lawyer in Clearwater. We have convenient locations in Florida: St. Petersburg, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, New Port Richey, and Tampa.
We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - Congress Ave Office
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Clearwater, FL 33763
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Tampa, FL 33615
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Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - St. Petersburg Law Office
840 Beach Dr NE Suite 202
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - Safety Harbor Law Office
202 9th Ave S Suite A-2
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
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