Diane asks " Is there much potential for additional harm if an allergic 5
month old is given one of these formulas for two weeks?"

YES!!!!
Death from anaphylactic shock is the worst-case scenario. Every manufactured
formula on the market has been known to cause anaphylaxis in at least one
sensitive (allergic) infant. Every single one, including the hydrolysate
formulas.

Other allergic reactions are a very strong possibility for this baby:
asthma, bronchitis, gut damage, increased risk of diabetes if the pancreas
is damaged, all infections, etc etc. The baby already has GI damage and skin
reactions. Asthma triggered by allergens (and aggravated by high levels of
airborne pollens and molds) is pretty nasty in infants, and can be fatal of
itself. (If she thinks breastfeeding is inconvenient, try 3:00 am trips to
the emergency room with a baby who can't breathe.)

Of course she is weary. Sick and allergic kids are no fun. Withholding
comfort and the SAFEST food on earth from her baby is a very very bad idea,
IMHO.

Linda J. Smith, BSE, FACCE, IBCLC
Bright Future Lactation Resource Centre
Dayton, OH USA
http://www.bflrc.com