Neocate bone disease and other skeletal problems may be a side effect of the baby formula, according to the results of a recent study.

Neocate formula products are specialized for infants with certain allergies or conditions that make them unable to use traditional formula. Neocate formula is dairy free, soy free, and based in amino acids to avoid potential allergic reactions.

However, some parents are concerned that Neocate bone disease may make these formula products dangerous and not suitable for use.

A study was recently published in scientific journal Bone, showing that there may be a link between the use of Neocate formula and the development of hypophosphatemia. Hypophosphatemia is a condition involving low levels of phosphate in the blood and may be associated with bone issues.

The study identified 51 children who had developed hypophosphatemia after, for the most part, being fed only Neocate formulas. Of these children, 94 percent also suffered from fractures, under-mineralization, or rickets.

Luckily, the side effects of the possible Neocate bone disease seemed to dissipate after formula was changed or if they were given phosphate supplements.

The researchers reported that their results “indicated a deficient dietary supply or severe malabsorption of phosphate, despite adequate formula composition. When transition to an alternate formula was possible, biochemical status improved shortly after introduction to the alternate formula, with eventual improvement in skeletal abnormalities.”

Although the study only evaluated a small population, skeletal side effects may be a serious risk for the formula. Already, Neocate bone disease has caused upheaval in the lives of children and their families.

The Clarion Ledger recently reported the story of a father who was accused of child abuse after his 10 year old son with cerebral palsy developed multiple fractures. Child Protective Services reportedly heavily investigated the family, visiting the family home multiple times a week to monitor the situation. However, they did not look into the medical possibilities which could have caused his son’s injuries.

Further investigation showed that the man’s son, who had been fed Neocate through a feeding tube, had developed hypophosphatemia, which led to his previously unexplained fractures.

Only after the father saw a commercial for legal help regarding Neocate bone disease did he realize that his son’s formula may have been linked to his fractures. His son was then weaned off of Neocate, which had previously been his only form of nutrition, over the course of five weeks.

According to the Clarion Ledger, a spokesperson for the company which makes Neocate has said that the Bone study represents a small population of patients and that they have assembled a panel of experts to monitor the issue. Additionally, changes are reportedly being made to the Neocate formula which may help prevent further Neocate bone disease.

“Recently, we began to integrate a more highly-soluble phosphate into our Neocate line of formulas. The updated formulation will begin to roll out beginning in April,” the company’s statement reads.