PT infants are discharged from the hospital weighing as little as 1.8 kg, and are typically discharged on formulas designed for term infants. They may remain growth-retarded for several years, and can experience delays in neurodevelopment. Similac NeoCare, a 22kcal/oz formula designed for PT infants following hospital discharge, provides higher concentrations of protein, minerals and vitamins compared with SWI. Results from a study of NeoCare effects upon the growth of PT infants are presented. Methods: 123 infants were randomized 2-4 days prior to hospital discharge to receive either NeoCare or SWI to 12 months adjusted age (AA). Infants were measured at enrollment (study day 1, SD1), and at 1, 2 and 3 months AA. Data are available for 86 infants to 3 months AA. TableResults: Mean ages at the SD1, 1, 2 and 3 month AA visits were 42, 100, 133 and 165 days, resp. Infants fed NeoCare weighed more at 1 month AA, and gained more weight from SD1 to 1 month AA and from SD1 to 2 months AA. Higher weights among NeoCare-fed infants were due primarily to effects in females and infants <1250 gm. Length gain (mm/day) from SD1 to 3 months AA was also higher in NeoCare-fed infants. Conclusion: NeoCare supported enhanced growth for up to 3 months adjusted age in preterm infants following hospital discharge.Funded by Ross Products Division, Abbott Laboratories

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