Regarding the recommendation given to use Nutramigen to supplement a 34 wk breastfed
infant:  company literature suggests its use as a hypoallergenic formula because the casein
is hydrolyzed and other ingredients are from hypoallergenic food sources.  It CAUTIONS
AGAINST "routine use use in highly stressed, low birth-weight infants".  It is a leap to
suggest that this formula is easier to digest than human milk, even for the premature
infant.  To give the benefit of the doubt to the pediatrician, if supplementation of
mother's milk is needed, a hypoallergenic formula would be a reasonable choice, even
preferred by some.  A much better choice would be pumping and supplementing with mother's
own milk and ongoing lactation support.

Susan Hooy, RD, CLE
Children's Hospital Oakland