Recent information has surfaced linking premature infants diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis with the use of either Similac or Enfamil cow’s milk-based baby formula. As a result, Davis Law Group has begun accepting these types of cases aiming to recover compensation for the victims from the manufacturers of the formula.
What is Necrotizing Enterocolitis?
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a bacterial infection of the digestive tract, specifically affecting the small intestine and colon. It is most common among premature babies (born before the 37th week of pregnancy) and typically develops within two to six weeks post-birth.
When an infant has NEC, their bowel becomes inflamed and, if left untreated, the intestinal tissue begins to die. Multiple long-term health effects can result from NEC including short bowel syndrome, intestinal strictures, and even death.
Symptoms of NEC can include:
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Changes in vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, respiration)
- Bloody diarrhea
- Green or yellow vomit
- Lethargy
- Lack of eating and weight gain
How Does Baby Formula Contribute to NEC?
While is it still unclear why, several studies have found that cow’s milk-based formulas lead to an increased risk of NEC in pre-term infants. Because premature infants are already at a higher risk of developing NEC, this added layer of risk is extremely concerning.
The manufacturers of Similac and Enfamil formulas did not reasonably inform medical providers of the associated risk of their products. The Similac products that contain cow’s milk are:
- NeoSure
- Alimentum Expert Care
- Liquid Protein Fortifier
- Human Milk Fortifier
- Human Milk Fortifier Hydrolyzed Protein Concentrated Liquid
- Special Care 20
- Special Care 24
- Special Care 24 High Protein
- Special Care 30
Enfamil products including cow’s milk are:
- NeoPro EnfCare Infant Formula
- Premature Infant Formula 20 Cal with Iron
- 24 Cal Instant Formula
- Premature Infant Formula 24 Cal High Protein
- Premature Infant Formula 24 Cal with Iron
- Premature Infant Formula 30 Cal with Iron
- Human Milk Fortifier
Criteria for Pursuing an Enfamil or Similac Claim or Lawsuit?
Because of the complexities involved in mass tort cases, we have to be incredibly strict with which cases we accept. In order for your case to be considered you must meet all three criteria listed below:
Infant born prior to 36 weeks gestation
Used any of the above-listed products
Infant was diagnosed with NEC after the use said product(s)
If your baby has been affected by NEC caused by Similac or Enfamil formula, contact the award-winning team of personal injury attorneys at Davis Law Group. The legal team here has been helping victims of corporate wrongdoing for over twenty years and offer free case evaluations to prospective clients. IF you would like to schedule a consultation, you can use the chat or contact form on this page, or call 206-727-4000.