Semi-Elemental Formulas
Semi-elemental formulas (also known as peptide-based formulas) are specialized enteral nutrition products designed for patients with impaired GI function. Unlike polymeric formulas which contain intact proteins, semi-elemental formulas contain proteins that are partially hydrolyzed into peptides (di- and tri-peptides) and amino acids, which are more easily absorbed by the small intestine. They typically feature a high percentage of fat from medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which do not require bile salts or pancreatic lipase for absorption, and simple carbohydrates for rapid digestion.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage is highly individualized and must be determined by a healthcare professional or registered dietitian. Recommendations are based on the patient's daily caloric, protein, and fluid requirements. Administered orally or via an enteral feeding tube (e.g., nasogastric, gastrostomy, or jejunostomy). Start feeds at a low rate and concentration, gradually advancing as tolerated.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 100 - 150 kcal/kg/day
- Frequency
- Continuous infusion or 6 to 8 divided bolus feeds daily
- Tracking Notes
- Strict medical and dietetic supervision required. Monitor feed tolerance, gastric residuals (if applicable), and hydration status closely.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 90 - 110 kcal/kg/day
- Frequency
- Every 3 to 4 hours (6 to 8 feeds daily) or continuous infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Dilution or concentration adjustments should only be made by a healthcare provider. Monitor stool frequency and consistency.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 80 - 100 kcal/kg/day
- Frequency
- Every 4 hours (5 to 6 feeds daily) or continuous infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure total daily fluid requirements are met, particularly if using highly concentrated formulas.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 70 - 90 kcal/kg/day
- Frequency
- 4 to 5 feeds daily or cyclic overnight infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Encourage oral intake of the formula if tolerated. Monitor growth velocity and nutritional biomarkers.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 60 - 80 kcal/kg/day
- Frequency
- 3 to 4 feeds daily or cyclic overnight infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Assess periodically for readiness to transition to standard polymeric enteral formulas or a regular solid diet.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 100 - 150 kcal/kg/day | Continuous infusion or 6 to 8 divided bolus feeds daily | Strict medical and dietetic supervision required. Monitor feed tolerance, gastric residuals (if applicable), and hydration status closely. |
| 5-7 kg | 90 - 110 kcal/kg/day | Every 3 to 4 hours (6 to 8 feeds daily) or continuous infusion | Dilution or concentration adjustments should only be made by a healthcare provider. Monitor stool frequency and consistency. |
| 8-10 kg | 80 - 100 kcal/kg/day | Every 4 hours (5 to 6 feeds daily) or continuous infusion | Ensure total daily fluid requirements are met, particularly if using highly concentrated formulas. |
| 11-15 kg | 70 - 90 kcal/kg/day | 4 to 5 feeds daily or cyclic overnight infusion | Encourage oral intake of the formula if tolerated. Monitor growth velocity and nutritional biomarkers. |
| 16-20 kg | 60 - 80 kcal/kg/day | 3 to 4 feeds daily or cyclic overnight infusion | Assess periodically for readiness to transition to standard polymeric enteral formulas or a regular solid diet. |
Formulation
Purpose
Nutritional management of patients with compromised gastrointestinal function, malabsorption, maldigestion, short bowel syndrome, chronic diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, or transition from parenteral nutrition.
Generic Name
Peptide-based enteral nutrition formulaBranded Drug Names
Semi-Elemental Formulas is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.