Managing cow's milk protein allergy during the 2022 formula shortage: decision-making among pediatric healthcare providers

Lea V. Oliveros; Jerry M. Brown; Abigail L. Fabbrini; Andrew A. Farrar; Luke Lamos; Jared Florio; Jesse Beacker; Jessica V. Baran; Michael J. Wilsey

doi:10.3389/falgy.2024.1359103

Frontiers in Allergy (May 2024)

Managing cow's milk protein allergy during the 2022 formula shortage: decision-making among pediatric healthcare providers

Lea V. Oliveros,
Jerry M. Brown,
Abigail L. Fabbrini,
Andrew A. Farrar,
Luke Lamos,
Jared Florio,
Jesse Beacker,
Jessica V. Baran,
Michael J. Wilsey

Affiliations

Lea V. Oliveros: Office of Medical Education, Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan, AL, United States
Jerry M. Brown: Office of Medical Education, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, United States
Abigail L. Fabbrini: Office of Medical Education, Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City, MO, United States
Andrew A. Farrar: Office of Medical Education, Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City, MO, United States
Luke Lamos: Office of Medical Education, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, United States
Jared Florio: Office of Medical Education, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, United States
Jesse Beacker: Office of Medical Education, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, United States
Jessica V. Baran: Office of Medical Education, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, United States
Michael J. Wilsey: Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, United States

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/falgy.2024.1359103
Journal volume & issue: Vol. 5

Abstract

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IntroductionCow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) affects 2%-7% of infants and is managed with hypoallergenic formulas. The 2022 recalls of infant formulas due to factors including contamination led to specialty formula shortages, highlighting CMPA management challenges. Understanding healthcare providers' (HCPs) decision-making in transitioning to alternative formulas during shortages is crucial. Limited attention has been given to how pediatric physicians make these choices.MethodsThis study utilized US HCPs' de-identified survey data to assess driving factors when switching extensively hydrolyzed formulas during shortages.Results104 eligible HCPs participated, including general pediatrics, pediatric allergy/immunology, and pediatric gastroenterology specialists. Safety, tolerability, and efficacy were identified as top factors for switching formulas. Formula 1 was considered well-tolerated, patient-accepted, and safe by all HCPs. Most expressed strong belief in Formula 1's safety and effectiveness.DiscussionFindings inform CMPA management during shortages, offering guidance to HCPs for suitable formula selection and enhanced infant care.

Published in Frontiers in Allergy

ISSN: 2673-6101 (Online)
Publisher: Frontiers Media S.A.
Country of publisher: Switzerland
LCC subjects: Medicine: Internal medicine: Specialties of internal medicine: Immunologic diseases. Allergy
Website: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/allergy

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