Table of contents:
- Functions and Benefits
- What is the function of Similac?
- DHA Benefits in Similac
- Benefits of lutein in Similac
- Benefits of vitamin E in Similac
- Benefits human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) in Similac
- Usage and Storage
- How do you use Similac?
- How to store this drink?
- Dose
- What is the dose of Similac for adults?
- What is the dose of Similac for babies?
- In what form is this drink available?
- Warning
- What should I pay attention to before using Similac?
- Is this drink safe for pregnant and lactating women?
- Side effects
- What are the possible side effects of Similac?
- Drug Interactions
- What medicines should not be taken at the same time as Similac?
- Are there foods and drinks that should not be consumed when using Similac?
- Are there certain health conditions you should avoid Similac?
- Overdose
- What should I do in an emergency or overdose?
- What should I do if I forget to give this milk for my baby?
Functions and Benefits
What is the function of Similac?
Similac is a supplement drink or formula milk given to babies as an alternative to breast milk (ASI) to provide additional food intake.
Similac contains milk added with ingredients that are also found in breast milk, such as DHA, lutein, and vitamin E. These ingredients are useful for supporting infant development. Apart from that, Similac also containshuman milk oligosaccharide (HMO) and prebiotics.
Similac has various product variants, but this article will focus on Similac Advance and Similac Neosure.
DHA Benefits in Similac
Docosahexaenoic acid or DHA is an omega 3 fatty acid that can be found in several food sources, such as fish and eggs.
In this formula, DHA is important for the growth and development of the baby's brain. In addition, DHA also plays a role in the development of the eyes and cognitive abilities of babies.
Benefits of lutein in Similac
Lutein is a type of vitamin called carotenoids. This vitamin can be found in egg yolks, broccoli, spinach, and certain fruits.
Lutein can also be found in this formula. According to a study found on Infant, Child, & Adolescent Nutrition, the content of this vitamin can help shape the eyes of newborns, especially those born prematurely, so that they have better vision.
Benefits of vitamin E in Similac
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vitamin E is an important ingredient needed by newborns, especially babies born prematurely. Vitamin E also has the potential to prevent health problems that are often found in babies born prematurely, such as anemia.
Similac Neosure is specially formulated for babies born prematurely and requires more vitamin E intake.
Benefits human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) in Similac
Oligosaccharide is a type of complex carbohydrate or sugar that can be found in various types of plants. These carbohydrates are also found in breast milk.
According to a study from the University of California, the oligosaccharide content in breast milk is believed to play a role in the formation of the baby's immune system, as well as protecting the body from various diseases and infections.
Usage and Storage
How do you use Similac?
Your baby's health depends on adherence to these instructions. Proper hygiene, handling and storage are important when preparing infant formula. Failure to follow these instructions can pose a risk to the health of the baby. Ask the baby's doctor whether you should use cooled or heated water for mixing and whether you should boil (sterilize) bottles, nipples and bottle rings before use.
- Wash your hands and all utensils
- Pour water into a clean bottle (see guide for mixing)
- Add 1 measuring scoop (8.3 g) to every 2 fl oz of water (59 ml)
- Return the dry measuring spoon to the container
- Close the bottle, shake it thoroughly, put the pacifier on
- After drinking, drink it in 1 hour or throw it away
How to store this drink?
Consult a pharmacist. Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed.
Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your medicine.
Dose
The following information cannot be used as a substitute for a doctor's prescription. You MUST consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Similac.
What is the dose of Similac for adults?
This product is more likely to be consumed by babies.
What is the dose of Similac for babies?
For babies, give this milk as much as 2 measuring spoons, and dissolve it in 120 ml of water.
In what form is this drink available?
This formula is available in the following shapes and sizes:
- Similac Advance 400 grams for babies aged 0-6 months (available in powder and liquid form)
- Similac Neosure 370 grams for babies aged 0-12 months who need additional nutrition, for example being born prematurely or underweight (available in powder and liquid form)
Warning
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.
What should I pay attention to before using Similac?
Don't ever use it microwave to warm this formula milk. Powdered infant formula is not sterile and should not be given to premature babies or babies who may have immune problems unless directed and supervised by your baby's doctor.
Not for babies or children who have galactosemia or are intolerant of cow's milk.
Is this drink safe for pregnant and lactating women?
There is not enough information about the safety of using Similac during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this milk.
Side effects
What are the possible side effects of Similac?
It is possible that this formula milk can cause side effects in babies who have galactosemia because their bodies cannot tolerate sugar intake from milk.
Immediately stop giving Similac if your baby shows any of the following signs:
- decreased appetite
- weight loss
- yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- gag
Not everyone experiences side effects. If you have concerns about certain side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Drug Interactions
What medicines should not be taken at the same time as Similac?
Similac may interact with other drugs you are currently taking, which could change the performance of your drug or increase the risk of serious side effects.
Not all possible drug interactions are listed in this document. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription / non-prescription drugs and herbal products) and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without your doctor's approval.
Are there foods and drinks that should not be consumed when using Similac?
Similac may interact with food or alcohol by changing the way drugs work or increasing the risk of serious side effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.
Are there certain health conditions you should avoid Similac?
This milk may interact with your baby's health condition. These interactions can worsen the health of the baby or change the way milk works.
It is important to always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any health conditions your baby is experiencing.
Avoid giving this milk if your baby has the following conditions:
- galactosemia
- cow's milk allergy
Overdose
What should I do in an emergency or overdose?
In the event of an emergency or overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (119) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.
What should I do if I forget to give this milk for my baby?
If you forget a dose of Similac, use it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Don't double the dose.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.