In premature infants, both Enfamil, a baby formula manufactured by Mead Johnson, and Similac, a baby formula manufactured by Abbott Laboratories, can cause necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). This gastrointestinal condition, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), is severe and causes intestinal tissue death. It may even be fatal in as many as 50% of cases. In addition, the intestinal inflammation caused by this horrible condition may cause holes in the intestine. It is even possible for bacteria from the intestinal tract to leak into the abdomen or blood, causing severe illnesses or deadly blood infections. The condition can also cause severe health issues like sepsis, intestinal strictures, developmental problems, and cerebral palsy.
A study in Lancet, 1990, found that this horrendous condition NEC was up to 10 times more likely in premature infants given formula. In recent years, several studies have linked cow’s milk-based formula to an increased risk of NEC in premature infants, based on cases filed against baby formula products.
Similac and Enfamil manufacturers are facing lawsuits from parents because they were aware or should have been aware that their baby formula products could cause necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants. In addition, these companies did not warn parents or medical providers about the risk. According to the parents who sued, Enfamil and Similac failed to indicate that NEC is a possible side effect of their baby formulas or provide proper instructions or guidelines on using the product. As an added concern, these companies marketed their baby formula products as safe and beneficial for premature infants despite potential risks.
If you are a parent of a premature infant diagnosed with NEC after being fed Similac or Enfamil, you can file a baby formula lawsuit for potential compensation. Your premature infant could have been fed Similac or Enfamil in the hospital. It may be possible to find out from your lawyer if you are unsure. It is important to provide the name and location of the hospital. It might be that you fed your baby an Enfamil or Similac product after the baby was discharged from the hospital. If this is the case, it is encouraged that you keep receipts, proof of purchase, packaging, or boxes from the product for evidence.
Have you or someone you love been affected by defective drugs/products in Texas? At Carabin Shaw, we understand that the legal complexities of defective product lawsuits can make an already stressful situation much worse. That is why the attorneys at Carabin Shaw endeavor to make the process as easy as possible, keeping our clients involved and informed every step of the way. With nearly 30 years of experience and extensive resources, our team of driven attorneys strives to receive full compensation for our clients in various defective products lawsuits, including wrongful death. Not sure if you have a case? Our firm offers prospective clients free initial consultations so you can find out at no cost to yourself. Don’t wait! The statute of limitations varies from case to case, so it is vital that you contact the law firm of Carabin Shaw as soon as possible at 800-862-1260.