Choosing a Formula for Your Opioid-Exposed Baby
In a recent Science in Plain English article, we shared how researchers tested various formulas with babies experiencing Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) That study found that high calorie formulas were beneficial, and that lactose content did not matter. In this post, we are sharing four formulas commonly recommended in our online support group.
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*Neocate is available by prescription and may be covered by your insurance. Speak with a pediatric gastroenterologist about accessing a prescription.Tips and Tricks
The more hydrolyzed the milk proteins in formulas get (to make them more easily digestible), the worse they smell and taste, and the greener baby's stool gets. This is normal.
It can help to add a drop of non-alcoholic vanilla extract; and/or
If baby is old enough and already trying solids - you can add a couple tablespoons of baby oatmeal flakes and use a bottle with a Y-cut nipple. They even make banana baby oatmeal. It sits in their bellies better and can be helpful when your baby has reflux, too.
Some babies digest the Ready To Feed liquid formulas more easily than powdered formulas. They are both good options, so try the RTF format if your baby isn’t doing well on a powdered brand before switching formulas completely.
Babies born exposed to opioids may need their formula mixed to double-calorie if they were born premature or are underweight. Speak to your pediatrician or pediatric gastroenterologist about whether or not this could benefit your baby.
Important Notes
If you are a foster parent, you may need permission to change formulas. This post and the accompanying Science in Plain English article can be helpful in advocating for a formula change.
Lactose content may matter for your child and is worth exploring if they are having discomfort or difficulty feeding
High calorie formula may cause GI issues like gas and constipation, so that is something to watch for if using at home.
