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PediaSure (milk replacement, food supplement)

Written by Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD · Pharmacology


Updated Jun 16, 2021

    PediaSure and PediaSure Plus are milk supplement products for children. These products contain cow’s milk and soy ingredients but are free from lactose and gluten. It is not a replacement for breastmilk and should not be given to children under 6 months of age.

    pediasure

    Uses

    What is PediaSure used for?

    • Milk/nutritional supplement
    • Meal replacement
    • Promote weight gain and growth in children

    How should I take PediaSure?

    Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

    Carefully scoop and mix the powder with a glass of water. For formula mixed in advance, store it in the refrigerator and use it within 24 hours.

    How do I store PediaSure?

    This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. For best quality, the use the contents within 3 weeks after opening.

    There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

    You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

    Precautions & Warnings

    What should I know before using PediaSure?

    Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

    • Pregnant or breastfeeding.
    • Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
    • An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product, particularly:
    • Milk
    • Soy
  • Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions, especially:
    • Galactosemia
  • Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

    Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, it is generally safe to take. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

    This product is not a replacement for breastmilk and should not be given to children under 6 months of age.

    This medication is pregnancy risk category A according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:

    • A=No risk
    • B=No risk in some studies
    • C=There may be some risk
    • D=Positive evidence of risk
    • X=Contraindicated
    • N=Unknown

    Side Effects

    What side effects can occur from PediaSure?

    Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

    • Allergic reaction
    • Constipation
    • Diarrhea
    • Weight gain

    However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

    Interactions

    What drugs may interact with PediaSure?

    This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

    To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.

    Does food or alcohol interact with PediaSure?

    This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

    What health conditions may interact with PediaSure?

    This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

    • Galactosemia

    Dosage

    The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

    What is the dose for an adult?

    Children and adults over 10 years old can still take PediaSure products, however, the dose depends on their individual nutritional needs. Talk to your doctor for more information.

    What is the dose for a child?

    PediaSure (original formula)

    Give 4 level scoops (39.2 g) mixed with 210 mL of drinking water, 1 to 2 times per day. If warm formula is preferred, use room temperature or warm water <35°C (95°F). Do not boil or heat in the microwave.

    PediaSure Plus

    Give 5 level scoops (48.6 g) to 190 mL of drinking water, 1 to 2 times per day. If warm formula is preferred, use room temperature or warm water <35°C (95°F). Do not boil or heat in the microwave.

    How is PediaSure available?

    PediaSure is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

    • Original PediaSure (per 100 g of powder): 14.1 g of protein/14.1 g of fat/64.34 g of carbohydrates/ 443 kilocalories; with linoleic acid, DHA, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, folic acid, vitamin B complex, pantothenic acid, biotin, sodium, potassium, chlorine, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, iodine, selenium, chromium, molybdenum, choline, fiber, taurine, carnitine, inositol, arginine
    • PediaSure Plus (per 100 g of powder) 13.87 g of protein/18.12 g of fat/59.7 g of carbohydrates/ 463 kilocalories; with linoleic acid, DHA, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, folic acid, vitamin B complex, pantothenic acid, biotin, sodium, potassium, chlorine, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, iodine, selenium, chromium, molybdenum, choline, fiber, taurine, carnitine, inositol, arginine

    What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

    Overdose is not likely, although excessive doses can lead to weight gain over time. In case of an emergency or serious adverse side effects, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

    What should I do if I miss a dose?

    If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. A higher dose or additional servings may be given to compensate for lacking doses. Additional doses depend on the patient’s nutritional and caloric needs per day.

    Disclaimer

    Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

    Written by

    Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD

    Pharmacology


    Updated Jun 16, 2021

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