Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in children and young people: diagnosis and management

Recommendation ID: NG1/2
Question: What is the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of a trial of hydrolysed formula in formula-fed infants with frequent regurgitation associated with marked distress?
Any explanatory notes (if applicable): There is a widespread belief that GOR and/or GORD in formula-fed infants is often caused by intolerance to cows' milk. As a result, health professionals often prescribe a trial of hydrolysed formula as a substitute for cows' milk formula. This has resource implications because hydrolysed formula is more expensive than cows' milk formula. Additionally, there is no evidence on the clinical or cost effectiveness of this approach. Therefore, it is proposed that a randomised controlled trial is undertaken to explore this question. It is important to consider 2 population subgroups: infants with a personal or family history of atopic conditions, infants whose GOR and/or GORD has not responded to the initial management outlined in this guideline (up to and including alginates).

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance: Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in children and young people: diagnosis and management
Number: NG1
Date issued: January 2015

Is this a recommendation for the use of a technology only in the context of research?	No
Is it a recommendation that suggests collection of data or the establishment of a register?	No
Last Reviewed	09/02/2015