The attorneys at the Elrod Pope Law Firm, P.A. handle NEC baby formula lawsuits. Our lawyers are taking cases representing families whose infants have suffered from necrotizing enterocolitis after using infant formula.
Certain infant formulas that contain cow milk may be dangerous for premature babies. In addition, healthcare providers may have failed to recognize symptoms of NEC. They may not have warned parents of the possibility of NEC and what to look out for. Families are bringing claims for monetary compensation based on the medical complications and suffering of their children.
If your child used Enfamil or Similac and then developed NEC, contact us to talk about your case. We are taking new cases against baby formula manufacturers. See how our NEC baby formula lawsuit attorneys can help your family recover financially for your losses and your child’s suffering.
What baby formula has a lawsuit for NEC?
Baby formula lawsuits for NEC may be brought against Enfamil (Mead Johnson Nutrition) or Similac (Abbott Laboratories Inc.).
NEC Baby Formula Complications and Lawsuits
Premature infants may not be able to breastfeed normally. Healthcare providers may recommend baby formula as an alternative. However, an infant’s premature body may not be able to digest the cow’s milk that’s common in many formulas. Symptoms are more serious than mild indigestion – NEC is a potentially life-threatening medical condition.
Baby formula manufacturers spend large sums to advertise and display their products as safe and effective. However, they may lead to serious harm for some infants. Parents are turning to lawsuits to recover financial compensation for medical bills, future needs for their child and suffering. They are holding manufacturers accountable.
You have the right to an attorney to represent you in your NEC baby formula lawsuit. We’re dedicated to representing families impacted by NEC. Take action and speak with a lawyer now by contacting us.
What are the symptoms of NEC?
Signs an infant may have NEC are:
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Unwillingness to eat
- Fussiness and crying
- Red belly
- Tenderness in the belly
- Green vomit
- Bloody stools
- Low or fluctuating body temperature
- Constipation
- Lethargy
(Source: Dirnberger, Necrotizing Enterocolitis, KidsHealth)
According to WebMD, necrotizing enterocolitis is rare. However, it is more common in premature infants who are given cow’s milk formula. Babies weighing less than 3.25 pounds may be especially at risk.
Does Enfamil cause NEC?
While the exact causes of NEC are unknown, premature, low-weight infants using Enfamil may be more likely to develop NEC. Enfamil manufacturers have a legal obligation to design their products with safety in mind and instruct parents in how to use their products safely and recognize warning symptoms.
Does Similac cause NEC?
Medical research is developing a growing body of evidence linking the use of cow’s milk formulas like Similac to NEC in premature infants. Infants using Similac may be more likely to develop NEC in the weeks during and following use.
What are the complications of NEC?
In premature infants, NEC may cause:
- Narrowing of the intestines
- Dead bowel tissue
- Perforations
- Peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal cavity)
- Failure to thrive
- Developmental delays
- Intestinal failure
- Sepsis
- Death
(Source: Bazacliu, Neu, Necrotizing Enterocolitis: Long Term Complications)
For vulnerable infants, even small amounts of formula can cause serious complications. Unfortunately, manufacturers and healthcare professionals may not adequately warn and instruct parents about the warning signs until serious complications develop.
2022 Baby Formula Lawsuit Status Update
In 2022, lawsuits have already been filed against the manufacturers of baby formula. One claim alleges that manufacturers did nothing to change their product, or alter the instructions for use, despite knowledge of health complications and death in premature infants. (The Estate of Daniel Renteria-Hernanez v. Abbott Laboratories, Inc, Mead Johnson & Co., LLC and Mead Johnson Nutrition Co.)
Another claim states that a child born prematurely was given cow’s milk formula and then died at three months old. The trial court denied a defense motion to dismiss claims of failure to warn of product dangers, negligent design, post-sale duty to warn and loss of consortium. An experienced attorney can assist you with determining what legal causes of action to assert based on your child’s specific circumstances and the latest developments in the law. (Hunts v. Abbott Labs.)
Is it too late to be a part of an NEC baby formula lawsuit?
NEC baby formula lawsuits are moving forward. If your child has been hurt, there may still be time to begin a case. Contact our attorneys to determine if your case meets the criteria and the timeline to file.
What is the treatment for necrotizing enterocolitis?
Treatments that may be used for NEC are:
- Stopping feedings/Discontinued use of formula
- Antibiotics (intravenous)
- Surgery to remove perforations
- Removal of dead bowel tissue
- Monitoring of symptoms, including blood tests and checking for bloody stools
- Oxygen and assisted breathing
- Transfusions
- A tube to drain air and fluid
(Source: Necrotizing Enterocolitis, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh)
Healthcare providers continue to seek better ways to diagnose and treat necrotizing enterocolitis. In late 2021, neonatal intensive care nurse Christine Wetzel received the National Magnet Nurse of the Year Award for her part in developing a screening tool to assess NEC risk in premature infants.
What kind of settlement can I expect for an NEC baby formula lawsuit?
While it depends on many variables, any settlement for an NEC baby formula lawsuit should account for the costs incurred and the suffering of the family because of the infant’s death. Economic compensation may include expenses related to the child’s care, funeral costs and other financial losses.
Can I sue if my child develops NEC?
Our attorneys are seeking the highest compensation amounts possible for families who are affected by NEC. We want to help your family. Contact us for a free consultation and case evaluation.
Consultations Available NEC Baby Formula Lawsuits
At Elrod Pope Law Firm, P.A., our attorneys are dedicated to your cause and your financial recovery. We are available 24/7 for a free case review and consultation. Personal injury claims are the focus of our law firm.
Our team has extensive experience helping families in some of the most difficult times of their lives. Take action and speak with a lawyer now. Contact us today.
