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Popular cow's milk-based baby formulas, Enfamil and Similac, have long been linked to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious gastrointestinal disease.
NEC can be life-threatening. Still, manufacturers Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson & Company, LLC failed to warn of the risks associated with their products. As a result, countless parents and health care providers across the nation have been unknowingly giving children toxic baby formula.
Kershaw Talley Barlow is pursuing claims against Abbott and Mead Johnson, among other cow’s milk-based baby formula product manufacturers. If your baby was injured, you may have the opportunity to pursue compensation through a civil lawsuit.
What Is Necrotizing Enterocolitis?
Necrotizing enterocolitis, or NEC, is a potentially life-threatening condition that affects the gastrointestinal system. It is most common among premature babies.
In this condition, bacteria invade and inflame intestinal tissue. As bacteria kill the baby’s intestine, a hole may develop. The bacteria are then free to leave the intestines, enter the abdomen, and travel through the bloodstream.
For some, NEC is mild; for others, it can result in severe infections or death.
According to Cleveland Clinic, symptoms of NEC include but are not limited to:
- Lethargy
- Refusing to feed
- Yellow or green vomit
- Weight loss or lack of weight gain
- Abdominal pain
- Swollen or bloated abdomen
- Trouble breathing
- Changes in vital signs (heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure)
NEC usually develops about two to six weeks after a premature birth.
Which Baby Formulas Are Toxic?
The problem with Enfamil and Similac is the use of cow’s milk, as that is what has been scientifically proven to increase a premature infant’s risk of developing NEC. Research on this link goes back to the 1980s.
Enfamil products that may be toxic include:
- Enfamil 24 Cal
- Enfamil Premature 20 Cal
- Enfamil Premature 24 Cal
- Enfamil Premature 30 Cal
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier Powder
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier Acidified Liquid
- Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare
The following Similac products may also be toxic:
- Similac Special Care 20
- Similac Special Care 24
- Similac Special Care 30
- Similac Special Care 24 High Protein
- Similac NeoSure
- Similac Liquid Protein Fortifier
- Similac Alimentum Hypoallergenic formulas
Sadly, many of these products are used in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) to nourish premature babies.
If your child developed NEC after ingesting Enfamil or Similac baby formula products, you have legal rights. You may be able to recover compensation from the manufacturer, which can help you afford the medical care and attention your baby needs.
Please note that you may also have the right to sue if any other cow’s milk-based baby formula led to an NEC diagnosis for your baby.
Fighting for Families Harmed by Toxic Baby Formula
The fact is, Abbott and Mead Johnson should have warned parents and health care providers of the risks associated with their cow’s milk-based baby formula products. Our Sacramento legal team at Kershaw Talley Barlow is here to hold them accountable for failing to do so.
Our award-winning lawyers advocate for injured babies and their families throughout the nation. If you have a case, you can rest assured that we will work to win full compensation for your family. We have used our over 100 years of combined experience to recover more than $1 billion for our clients, some of which was achieved in cases against large manufacturers.
Contact Kershaw Talley Barlow online for a free consultation with a Sacramento toxic baby formula lawsuit attorney. We can also be reached at (916) 520-6639.