Extensively Hydrolysed and Amino Acid Formulas: Differences and Principles of Use

Extensively hydrolysed formula

Through a hydrolysis process, cow's milk protein is broken into smaller peptides, which lowers the chance of triggering an immune reaction. It is often used in the dietary management of most infants with mild to moderate cow's milk allergy. A small number of infants still react to the peptides that remain.

Amino acid formula

It uses amino acids as the nitrogen source and contains no whole protein or peptides. It is suitable for infants who still react to extensively hydrolysed formula, who have more severe symptoms, or who have severe allergic signs. It is also often used in the early stage when strict avoidance is needed. Its taste, osmotic pressure and price differ quite a lot from ordinary formula.

Principles of use

• The doctor chooses based on how severe the symptoms are, the age, and past reactions. Do not decide on your own to step up or step down.
• When using it, keep to the plan for a period of time, along with symptom records and growth monitoring.
• Do not switch between formulas often on your own, as this can affect the assessment.
• After the assessment time point is reached, the doctor decides whether to try introducing the next food.

Special formulas are foods for medical use, and they should be used under professional guidance. If symptoms get worse quickly after eating, seek medical care right away.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.