Understanding Amino Acid-Based Formulas
Unlike standard infant formulas that use cow's milk protein or extensively hydrolyzed formulas, Nutramigen PURAMINO is an amino acid-based formula. Its protein source is individual amino acids, the basic building blocks of protein, which an infant's immune system cannot recognize as a threat.
The Science Behind Hypoallergenic Formulas
In infants with CMPA, the immune system reacts to large cow's milk protein molecules. Hypoallergenic formulas are designed to avoid this reaction. Nutramigen PURAMINO is an elemental formula, the highest level of hypoallergenic formulation, with proteins reduced to their elemental state. This makes it suitable for infants with severe CMPA and multiple food protein allergies.
Who Needs an Amino Acid-Based Formula?
A healthcare professional typically recommends an amino acid-based formula like Nutramigen PURAMINO for infants with:
- Severe cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA)
- Multiple food protein allergies
- No improvement on extensively hydrolyzed formulas (EHF)
- Conditions requiring an elemental diet, such as Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Value
Nutramigen PURAMINO is nutritionally complete. It uses glucose syrup solids as the primary carbohydrate source and a blend of vegetable oils, including MCT oil for easier digestion. It is also fortified with DHA and ARA for brain and eye development.
Nutramigen PURAMINO vs. Other Hypoallergenic Formulas
Nutramigen PURAMINO differs from other hypoallergenic options.
Comparison of Hypoallergenic Formulas
| Feature | Nutramigen PURAMINO | Nutramigen with LGG® | Standard Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | 100% Free Amino Acids | Extensively Hydrolyzed Casein | Intact Cow's Milk Protein |
| Suitability | Severe CMA, Multiple Food Allergies | Mild-to-Moderate CMPA | No Allergies/Intolerances |
| Risk of Reaction | Virtually zero | Very low, but small risk remains for severe cases | High for infants with CMPA |
| Allergenic Potential | Elemental, non-allergenic | Minimally allergenic | Highly allergenic for CMPA infants |
Extensively hydrolyzed formulas break proteins into small peptides, whereas Nutramigen PURAMINO uses individual amino acids. For severe allergies, even small peptides can cause a reaction, making Nutramigen PURAMINO a safer choice.
Important Considerations for Parents
Feeding an infant with a severe allergy requires healthcare professional supervision. Consult a pediatrician or allergist before starting Nutramigen PURAMINO. It may require a prescription and a doctor can advise on its use and preparation. Loose, greenish stools are a normal side effect of this formula and generally not a concern.
Conclusion
Yes, Nutramigen PURAMINO is dairy free. It is a specialized, amino acid-based formula for infants with severe CMPA and multiple food allergies. By using individual amino acids, it eliminates the risk of an allergic response to cow's milk protein. It is also nutritionally complete with essential nutrients like DHA and ARA. Always consult a healthcare provider before changing your infant's diet.
Visit the official Nutramigen website for more information on their products.
