Vivonex Not Discontinued, but Facing Changes
Contrary to widespread speculation fueled by temporary shortages and supply chain challenges, the Vivonex brand itself is not being discontinued. The confusion arose from specific events, most notably the manufacturing issues affecting Vivonex Pediatric Powder in early 2024. These challenges led to an out-of-stock situation and a temporary halt in production, prompting understandable concern among the community of patients who rely on elemental nutrition. Nestlé Health Science has since clarified the situation through official communications, detailing a resolution and path forward.
The Vivonex Pediatric Relaunch
One of the most significant changes affecting the Vivonex product line was the transition of Vivonex Pediatric Powder. In an announcement dated September 1, 2024, Nestlé Health Science informed distributors of a major packaging overhaul for this specific product.
Key changes included:
- Packaging: A shift from the previous 36 x 1.7 oz single-serve packets to a more sustainable 6 x 400 g multi-serving canister format.
- Formula Improvements: The new version includes micronutrient changes to align with current Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) and is now Halal certified.
- Availability: Production was anticipated to resume in the fourth quarter of 2024, with the new product entering the market in November/December 2024. An inventory update from March 2025 confirmed that the new Vivonex Pediatric Elemental Powder is available.
This move was positioned as an optimization of manufacturing capabilities to ensure a more consistent long-term supply. While this update initially caused uncertainty, it was not a discontinuance but rather a strategic relaunch to improve product reliability.
Status of Other Vivonex Products
Other products within the Vivonex family, such as Vivonex RTF and Vivonex Plus, have also experienced intermittent supply fluctuations but have not been discontinued. Official communications from early 2025 provide status updates for these formulas.
- Vivonex® RTF: A March 2025 inventory status report listed Vivonex® RTF with a product code (36250000) and noted a production date in May 2025. This indicates ongoing production and availability.
- Vivonex® Plus: This powdered, nutritionally complete elemental formula for individuals over three years old remains part of Nestlé Health Science's portfolio. It continues to be available through distributors and the Nestle Nutrition Store.
- Vivonex® T.E.N.: Similarly, Vivonex® T.E.N., a low-fat elemental formula, is still an active product for the nutritional management of severe gastrointestinal issues.
Navigating Supply and Alternative Options
For patients and caregivers facing difficulties sourcing their specific Vivonex product, communication with a healthcare team is paramount. Clinicians can help navigate inventory issues and find suitable substitutions if necessary. Resources are available to assist in finding comparable products. For instance, Beyond Celiac previously noted that Abbott Nutrition’s Vital HN is a comparable product to Vivonex Plus, though clinical judgment is always required for substitutions. The official Nestle Medical Hub can also offer product information.
Elemental Formula Comparison: Vivonex vs. Alternative
| Feature | Vivonex Plus (Nestle) | Vivonex RTF (Nestle) | Vital HN (Abbott) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Powder | Ready-to-Feed | Powder |
| Energy Density | 1.0 kcal/mL (mixed) | 1.0 kcal/mL | 1.0 kcal/mL (mixed) |
| Protein Source | 100% Free Amino Acids | 100% Free Amino Acids | 100% Free Amino Acids |
| Fat Content | 18% calories | 10% calories | 6% calories |
| Lactose-Free | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Usage | Oral/Tube Feeding | Tube Feeding | Oral/Tube Feeding |
| Best for | Severely compromised GI tracts | Severely compromised GI tracts | Compromised GI tracts |
Conclusion
In summary, the narrative of Vivonex being discontinued is inaccurate. While the Vivonex brand experienced significant temporary supply chain disruptions in 2024, particularly affecting its Pediatric formula, the manufacturer has taken steps to resolve these issues. Through product relaunches and production schedule updates, Nestlé Health Science has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining the Vivonex line. For patients and healthcare providers, staying informed via official distributor letters and consulting with a medical team is the best approach to managing nutrition during any intermittent product changes or stock issues. The Vivonex brand continues to serve as an important elemental nutrition option for those with severely compromised gastrointestinal functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vivonex Plus still available? A: Yes, Vivonex Plus is still an active and available product in the Nestlé Health Science portfolio. Any past stock issues were related to broader supply chain challenges, not a discontinuance.
Q: Why was Vivonex Pediatric temporarily unavailable? A: Vivonex Pediatric experienced an extended out-of-stock situation in early 2024 due to manufacturing challenges at a production facility. The product was relaunched in late 2024 in a new canister format.
Q: Are there any changes to the Vivonex Pediatric formula? A: Yes, the relaunched Vivonex Pediatric Elemental Powder features updated micronutrients to reflect current Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) and is now Halal certified.
Q: How can I check the current availability of Vivonex products? A: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is best to check official updates from Nestlé Health Science, contact your preferred medical distributor, or visit the Nestle Nutrition Store website.
Q: What are some potential alternatives to Vivonex? A: Alternatives may include other elemental formulas from manufacturers like Abbott Nutrition (e.g., Vital HN), Nutricia (e.g., Neocate), or other products in the Nestlé portfolio, such as Peptamen. Any substitution should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Q: What caused the recent product shortages in enteral formulas? A: Recent product shortages across various formula brands have been attributed to a combination of factors, including global supply chain issues and manufacturing challenges.
Q: Can I get free Vivonex products from Nestlé? A: Nestlé Health Science offers a Patient Assistance Program for eligible individuals who cannot afford their products. This program requires an application to be submitted by a healthcare provider.
Q: Is Vivonex RTF still being manufactured? A: Yes, Vivonex RTF is still in production. An inventory status update from March 2025 indicated an estimated availability date in May 2025.
Q: What is the difference between Vivonex Plus and Vivonex T.E.N.? A: Vivonex Plus is a standard elemental formula with 18% calories from fat, while Vivonex T.E.N. is a low-fat elemental formula with 10% calories from fat, enriched with glutamine for severely compromised GI tracts.
Q: Who should use Vivonex formulas? A: Vivonex formulas are designed for patients with severely compromised gastrointestinal function, including conditions such as severe malabsorption, intestinal failure, pancreatitis, and extensive bowel resection.
Q: Were other Nestlé products affected by shortages? A: Yes, other Nestlé products and products from other manufacturers have also been impacted by supply chain issues. Nestlé frequently provides updates on products like Impact Peptide 1.5.
