Pregestimil infant formula is rarely used without a doctor's recommendation. It provides the same extensively predigested protein as Nutramigen, but it differs from Nutramigen in its source of fat. The fat blend in Pregestimil consists mostly of a special type of fat called "MCT oil," which is more easily digested and absorbed than the close-to-breast milk fat blend in Enfamil, LactoFree, Nutramigen and ProSobee. (MCT oil is a "medium chain triglyceride oil.")
The unique formulation of Pregestimil is designed for feeding babies with diseases or disorders that make it difficult for them to absorb the fat blend in most other formulas. These conditions include short-bowel syndrome, steatorrhea (fat in the stool), cystic fibrosis or persistent diarrhea that does not respond to treatment. In addition to providing extensively predigested protein, Pregestimil is also lactose-free and sucrose-free. Its carbohydrate is provided in the form of corn syrup solids instead of lactose.
Most babies will never need a formula like Pregestimil. But for those who do, their parents can rest assured that like the other members of the Enfamil Family of Formulas, Pregestimil provides complete, balanced nutrition — and is appropriate for as long as the baby needs a formula.
