Enteral Nutrition Formula Selection: Current Evidence and Implications for Practice. (February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brown, Britta; Roehl, Kelly; Betz, Melanie
• Is Part Of: Nutrition in clinical practice. Volume 30:Number 1(2015:Feb.)
• Page Start: 72
• Page End: 85
• Publication Date: 2015-02
• Subjects: enteral formula -- medical food -- pharmaconutrition -- nutritional support -- formulated food -- nutrition therapy -- enteral nutrition -- tube feeding; Nutrition -- Periodicals; Diet therapy -- Periodicals; Artificial feeding -- Periodicals; 615.854
• DOI: 10.1177/0884533614561791
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0884-5336

Abstract

Many new enteral nutrition (EN) formulas have been created over the past several decades with a variety of intended uses. Although each is intended to promote improved outcomes, research is often unclear and, in many cases, conflicting. It is important to note that EN products are considered medical foods by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and therefore do not have to complete premarket review or approval and are not regulated to the same extent as pharmaceuticals. While standard EN formulas are designed to meet the basic macro- and micronutrient requirements of individuals who cannot meet nutrition needs orally, specialty EN products have been developed to exhibit pharmacologic properties, such as immune-enhancing formulas containing arginine, glutamine, nucleotides, and ω-3 fatty acids. With the vast number of products available, rising costs of healthcare, and the drive toward evidence-based practice, it is imperative that clinicians carefully consider research regarding use of specialty formulas, paying close attention to the quality, patient population, clinical end points, and cost to patient and/or facility.