Improved Impact on Clinical Outcomes and Reduced Cost of Care Associated With Switching Hypoallergenic Amino Acid-Based Formulas

Amino acid-based formulas (AAF) contain free amino acids as their protein source and are indicated for certain gastrointestinal and medical conditions. When switching formulas, monitoring tolerance helps assure adequate nutritional management. A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted using U.S. insurance claims data from 402 children switched from one AAF (Formula1) to a different AAF (Formula2) between June 2021 and April 2023 during the nationwide formula shortage. Database was analyzed for age, sex, comorbidities, clinical symptoms, and healthcare encounters. Mean age was 5.3 ± 4.7 years (60% male). Significantly fewer children experienced abdominal distention, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea/vomiting, and allergy symptoms 1-, 3-, 6-months post-switch to Formula2 ( P < .05). Significant reductions for total mean adjusted costs, emergency department, inpatient, outpatient, urgent care, and telemedicine visits were observed 1-, 3-, and 6-months post-switch ( P < .001). Children in post-acute care settings who transitioned to an alternate AAF (Formula2) experienced significantly improved clinical outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.