Lawsuits are being filed nationwide against Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson, the makers of Similac and Enfamil, over claims that their cow’s milk-based formulas caused necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants. Parents allege the companies failed to warn about the increased risk of this deadly gastrointestinal condition. A recent $495 million jury verdict against Abbott highlights the growing legal battle. Learn how families may be eligible for compensation.
Ongoing NEC Lawsuits Target Similac and Enfamil for Premature Infant Injuries
amilies across the country are taking legal action against baby formula giants Abbott Laboratories (Similac) and Mead Johnson (Enfamil), alleging that their cow’s milk-based infant formulas and fortifiers have caused necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature babies—a life-threatening gastrointestinal disease.
⚠️ What Is NEC and Why Are These Formulas Being Sued?
Necrotizing enterocolitis is a dangerous condition that mainly affects premature and low birth weight infants. It causes the lining of the intestines to become inflamed and die, which can lead to sepsis, multiple surgeries, long-term disability, and even death.
Medical research has shown that premature babies fed cow’s milk-based formula like Similac or Enfamil are at significantly higher risk of developing NEC compared to those fed with human breast milk.
Despite this, lawsuits claim that Abbott and Mead Johnson marketed their products as safe, failed to provide adequate warnings to doctors and caregivers, and ignored growing scientific evidence of the risks.
⚖️ Recent Legal Update: Abbott Ordered to Pay $495 Million
In a groundbreaking case decided on July 26, 2024, a Missouri jury awarded $495 million in damages to a family whose premature baby developed NEC after being fed Similac Special Care 24. The verdict included:
- 💰 $95 million in compensatory damages
- 💥 $400 million in punitive damages
The baby, born at 26 weeks, suffered extensive intestinal damage, lifelong disabilities, and now requires 24/7 medical care. The jury found that the formula should not have been given to infants under 1,500 grams due to known NEC risks.
📋 Which Products Are Involved?
Attorneys are investigating cases involving the following formulas and fortifiers:
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier
- Enfacare Powder
- Similac Special Care
- Similac Special Care High Protein
- Similac Human Milk Fortifier
- Similac Neosure
- Similac Alimentum
📝 What’s Involved in Filing a Lawsuit?
Families interested in pursuing legal action will need to provide:
- Medical records
- Product usage history
- Information about the child’s condition
- Receipts or hospital records (if available)
Attorneys will file an individual (not class action) lawsuit that could seek compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical and long-term care costs
- Funeral expenses (in wrongful death cases)
- Loss of quality of life
It costs nothing upfront to speak with an attorney, and there’s no obligation to move forward after your consultation.
💡 How LexVita Legal Help Can Assist
If your premature baby developed NEC after being fed Similac or Enfamil, LexVita Legal Help can connect you with experienced attorneys pursuing these lawsuits.
🧾 Contact us today or fill out the form below to learn your rights. You may be eligible for significant compensation—and your case could help prevent future tragedies.
✅ Stay Informed. Seek Justice. Protect Families.