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World J Clin Pediatr. Mar 9, 2026; 15(1): 114953
Published online Mar 9, 2026. doi: 10.5409/wjcp.v15.i1.114953
Clinical outcomes of two lactose-free formulas in the management of acute childhood diarrhea
Nopaorn Phavichitr, Ruangvith Tantibhaedhyangkul, Wilaiporn Chanpreecha, Department of Pediatrics, Phramongkutklao Hospital, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Termpong Dumrisilp, Panjachat Ratanamongkol, Department of Pediatrics, Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital, Bangkok 10220, Thailand
Sittichoke Prachuapthunyachart, Voranush Chongsrisawat, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
ORCID number: Nopaorn Phavichitr (0000-0002-3940-1456); Termpong Dumrisilp (0000-0001-7110-0664); Sittichoke Prachuapthunyachart (0000-0003-1137-3411); Voranush Chongsrisawat (0000-0002-6106-0504).
Author contributions: Phavichitr N, Chongsrisawat V, and Tantibhaedhyangkul R contributed to the conceptualization of the study, the visualization of the results, and the original draft of the manuscript; Phavichitr N, Chongsrisawat V, Tantibhaedhyangkul R, and Dumrisilp T contributed to data curation; Phavichitr N, Chongsrisawat V, Tantibhaedhyangkul R, Dumrisilp T, Prachuapthunyachart S, and Chanpreecha W contributed to the methodological framework; Phavichitr N, Chongsrisawat V, Dumrisilp T, and Ratanamongkol P contributed to project administration; Phavichitr N, Chongsrisawat V, Tantibhaedhyangkul R, and Prachuapthunyachart S contributed to editing processes. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Institutional review board statement: This study was reviewed and approved by the local Ethical Review Board, No. 0361/66.
Clinical trial registration statement: This study has been registered at https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20240706013 (No. TCTR20240706013).
Informed consent statement: All the individuals who participated in this study provided their written informed consent prior to study enrollment.
Conflict-of-interest statement: All the authors report no relevant conflicts of interest for this article.
CONSORT 2010 statement: The authors have read the CONSORT 2010 Statement, and the manuscript was prepared and revised according to the CONSORT 2010 Statement.
Data sharing statement: No additional data are available.
Corresponding author: Voranush Chongsrisawat, MD, Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, 1873, Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. voranush.c@chula.ac.th
Received: October 11, 2025
Revised: November 13, 2025
Accepted: January 5, 2026
Published online: March 9, 2026
Processing time: 155 Days and 4.2 Hours

Abstract
BACKGROUND

Acute diarrhea is the most common gastrointestinal disease in children under five years of age and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality risks. Lactose-free formulas may be beneficial for hospitalized patients.

AIM

To compare the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of a medium-chain triglyceride-containing lactose-free formula (MLF) with a standard lactose-free formula (SLF) in children hospitalized with acute diarrhea.

METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, controlled trial, children aged 6-24 months were randomized to receive MLF or SLF. The primary outcomes were the duration until diarrhea resolution and the frequency of stools after enrollment. Secondary outcomes included length of hospital stay, treatment costs, and caregiver satisfaction.

RESULTS

Forty-four children completed the study (MLF = 22, SLF = 22). The median duration of diarrhea after enrollment did not differ significantly between the groups, 24.0 hours [interquartile range (IQR): 21.5] vs 45.0 hours (IQR: 49.0); P = 0.293. The reduction in stool frequency was also comparable [7.5 (IQR: 5.8) vs 4.0 (IQR: 3.8) times/day; P = 0.083]. The Hodges-Lehmann estimated median difference in diarrhea duration was -4 hours (95% confidence interval: -26.0 to 2.0), supporting the noninferiority of MLF. The median length of hospital stay was 2 days in both groups. Formula costs were significantly lower in the MLF group (227.9 Thai Baht vs 373.6 Thai Baht; P < 0.001). Caregiver satisfaction, product acceptance, and safety profiles were comparable between the groups.

CONCLUSION

MLF demonstrated noninferior clinical outcomes and safety compared to SLF, with a significant reduction in formula-related costs. MLF could be an appropriate alternative for the management of acute diarrhea in young children, especially in resource-constrained settings.

Key Words: Acute diarrhea; Acute gastroenteritis; Children; Lactose-free formula; Nutritional management

Core Tip: This randomized controlled trial compared a medium-chain triglyceride-containing lactose-free formula (MLF) with a standard lactose-free formula in children hospitalized with acute diarrhea. MLF showed noninferior efficacy and safety compared to standard lactose-free formula, with similar clinical outcomes and caregiver satisfaction, but at significantly lower cost. MLF may therefore serve as a cost-effective alternative for managing acute diarrhea in young children, particularly in resource-limited settings.



INTRODUCTION

Diarrheal diseases are major causes of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age worldwide and can lead to severe dehydration, malnutrition, and impaired development. Annually, an estimated 1.7 billion cases occur, with the highest burden in low- and middle-income countries[1]. In Thailand, the incidence of acute diarrhea was highest among children aged 0-4 years, reaching 3929.48 per 100000 people in 2022[2]. Management of acute diarrhea in children prioritizes rehydration and nutritional support[3]. Acute infectious diarrhea may damage enterocytes at the tips of intestinal villi, which can result in secondary lactase deficiency and symptoms such as osmotic diarrhea, bloating, and more frequent bowel movements[4]. The European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) suggests dietary modifications for infants and young children with severe watery diarrhea who are not breastfed, are suspected of having lactose intolerance, or are hospitalized. Switching to lactose-free formulas may be beneficial[5]. Systematic reviews support the use of lactose-free diets to manage acute diarrhea in children, and such diets may decrease both diarrhea duration and treatment failure rates, especially in hospitalized patients[6,7].

There is considerable variability in the composition, cost, and accessibility of lactose-free formulas across healthcare settings. In resource-limited settings, the availability, affordability, and cultural acceptability of specific products are important considerations. A medium-chain triglyceride (MCT)-containing, lactose-free formula produced locally is widely accessible at low cost. This formula has been used for three decades in children with digestive and absorptive disorders, including those requiring enteral nutrition. Despite its long-term use, published research evaluating its efficacy specifically during episodes of acute diarrhea is lacking. This study primarily aimed to compare the duration and severity of diarrhea between two lactose-free formulas in hospitalized children aged 6 months to 24 months. Secondary objectives included assessing formula acceptability, caregiver satisfaction, and associated formula costs until recovery from diarrhea.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Study design

This study was a double-blind, randomized, controlled, multicenter trial conducted in the pediatric departments of Phramongkutklao Hospital, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, and Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. We enrolled hospitalized patients aged 6 months to 24 months with acute diarrhea admitted between September 14, 2023, and May 30, 2025. The exclusion criteria included severe dehydration; bloody mucous stools; the use of antibiotics, probiotics, or antidiarrheal agents within seven days before enrollment; cow’s milk protein allergy; exclusive breastfeeding; severe malnutrition; chronic gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease; and other chronic conditions. The study was reviewed and approved by relevant Institutional Review Boards and conducted in accordance with Good Clinical Practices, the Declaration of Helsinki and its subsequent amendments, and national regulations. Informed consent was obtained from all participants’ caregivers prior to enrollment. The study was registered with the Thai Clinical Trials Registry, No. TCTR20240706013.

Sample size

In this study, a noninferiority design was used, and the formula for two independent means was used to compare the mean diarrhea duration between groups. Sample size determination was based on the formula for comparing two independent means, with calculations performed using the sample size calculator[8]. The power analysis assumed a two-sided significance level of α = 0.05, 80% power, a standard deviation of 28.8 hours, and a margin of 12 hours, as derived from a previous study of lactose-free formula[9]. The margin reflects clinically acceptable differences in lactose-free formula efficacy. Allowing for a 15% dropout rate, a total of 42 participants (21 per group) were targeted to ensure adequate power and statistical reliability.

Randomization and interventions

Eligible participants were randomized using a computerized block of four randomization methods, stratified by study site location. Both groups received lactose-free formula at a standard concentration of 20 kilocalories per fluid ounce. The intervention group received an MCT-containing, lactose-free formula (MLF) (PAN-ENTERAL®, Thai Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Bangkok, Thailand), and the control group received a standard lactose-free formula (SLF) (ENFALAC A+ LactoFree Care 360° DHA plusTM, Mead Johnson Nutrition, Chonburi, Thailand). The composition of macronutrients in the research formulas is shown in Table 1. The volume of formula intake was appropriate for each child’s age, supplemented with breast milk or age-appropriate food. All participants received standard medical care for acute childhood diarrhea.

Table 1 Composition of research formula.
Nutrients (g/100 kcal)
MCT-containing, lactose-free formula (MLF)
Standard lactose-free formula (SLF)
Protein3.02.1
SourceCaseinMilk protein
Fat5.05.4
SourceMCT oil, soy oilPalm olein, soy oil, coconut oil, high oleic safflower oil, DHA, ARA
Carbohydrate10.710.6
SourceDextrin, sucroseSolid corn syrup
Caloric density (calories per ounce)2020
Data collection and procedures

Upon enrollment, participants underwent a physical examination and anthropometric measurements (weight, length, and head circumference), and nutritional status was assessed using World Health Organization Anthro software version 3.2, a tool developed by the World Health Organization[10]. Stool consistency was scored using the modified Bristol Stool Form Scale for Children[11]. Additionally, the frequency of vomiting and dietary intake over the preceding 24 hours was recorded. Stool samples were collected for analysis of viral pathogens (Simple Rota-Adeno-Noro, OPERON, Zaragoza, Spain) and bacterial cultures. Bowel movements were monitored every two hours during hospitalization, and the frequency and consistency of the stools were recorded. Episodes of vomiting and other gastrointestinal symptoms were recorded. Intake data, including the volume of formula, breast milk, and complementary foods, were also collected. At least one of the following criteria was required for diarrhea recovery: Fewer than 3 bowel movements per day, normal stool consistency (modified Bristol Stool Form Scale for Children score: 3-4), and no watery stool for at least 12 hours. Discharge from the hospital was at the discretion of the attending physician. Prior to discharge, anthropometric parameters and body temperature were reassessed. All children were provided with the assigned formula until the follow-up visit, which was approximately 7 days after discharge, with a permissible deviation of up to ± 3 days. During this visit, weight and gastrointestinal symptoms were reassessed. The caregivers completed the Perceived Maternal Parenting Self-Efficacy Questionnaire and product acceptance questionnaire using the Visual Analogue Scale.

Statistical analysis

All statistical analyses were performed using an intention-to-treat approach. The distribution of continuous variables was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Variables with a normal distribution are reported as the means with standard deviations, while nonnormally distributed variables are expressed as medians with interquartile ranges (IQR). Between-group comparisons of continuous variables were conducted using Student’s t test or the Mann-Whitney U test, depending on the distribution of the data. For variables analyzed with the Mann-Whitney U test, the Hodges-Lehmann median difference and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to estimate the magnitude and precision of the between-group difference. Categorical variables were summarized as frequencies and percentages and were compared using the χ2 test. For continuous variables measured across multiple time points, between-group comparisons at each time point were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test. A two-sided P value < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance. All the statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics, version 30.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, United States).

RESULTS
Baseline characteristics

A total of 44 children aged 6-24 months with acute diarrhea were randomized, with 22 allocated to group MLF and 22 to group SLF. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials flow diagram of the study is shown in Figure 1. Comparisons of demographic data (Table 2) revealed no significant intergroup differences in median age, sex distribution, body weight, length, or head circumference. The diarrhea parameters, including stool frequency, stool consistency, and median duration, were identical during the 24 hours before enrollment. The categories of infectious etiologies were classified as viral, bacterial, or unidentified infections without significant disparity in distribution across groups. The utilization of medications was comparable between the two study groups. No statistically significant differences were observed in the administration of antiemetic medications between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Figure 1
Figure 1 The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials flow diagram of the study. MLF: Medium-chain triglyceride-containing lactose-free formula; SLF: Standard lactose-free formula.
Table 2 Baseline characteristics4.
Variable
Group MLF (n = 22)Group SLF (n = 22)P value
1Gender female10.0 (45.5)10.0 (45.5)1.000
Age (months)14.5 (10.5)14.5 (9.8)0.605
16-12 months10.0 (45.5)9.0 (40.9)0.761
1≥ 13 months12.0 (54.5)13.0 (59.1)
Body weight on admission (g)9950.0 (2991.3)9900.0 (2340.0)0.366
2Body length on admission (cm)76.8 ± 7.778.3 ± 6.30.208
2Head circumference (cm)45.0 ± 3.345.0 ± 2.50.328
Diarrhea parameters before enrollment
Duration of diarrhea (days)1.0 (1.0)2.0 (1.0)0.139
Stool frequency in 24 hours (times)9.0 (5.5)7.5 (4.8)0.493
Stool consistency in 24 hours (mBSFS-C score)5.0 (0.0)5.0 (0.0)0.639
3Infection by stool assessment
1Viral infection (Rotavirus, adenovirus, norovirus)8.0 (38.0)7.0 (33.3)0.506
1Bacteria (Salmonella spp., Aeromonas spp.)4.0 (19.1)3.0 (14.3)
1Unidentified infection9.0 (42.9)11.0 (52.4)
Diarrhea improvement outcome

There was no statistically significant difference in the reduction in stool frequency from baseline to discharge between the two groups (P = 0.083). Group MLF experienced a median change of -7.5 times per day (IQR: 5.8), whereas group SLF experienced a median change of -4.0 times per day (IQR: 3.8), as shown in Table 3. No statistically significant difference in diarrhea duration was observed between the two groups (P = 0.293). The median duration of diarrhea in group MLF was 24.0 hours (IQR: 21.5), whereas that in group SLF was 45.0 hours (IQR: 49.0). The Hodges-Lehmann estimate of the median difference in diarrhea duration between groups was -4 hours (95%CI: -26.0 to 2.0). The median length of hospitalization was 2 days (IQR: 1.0) in both groups. The daily stool frequency and stool consistency from Day 0 to Day 7 were not significantly different between the groups at any time point, as shown in Figure 2. Both groups demonstrated a progressive reduction in stool frequency and improvement in stool consistency over the course of treatment.

Figure 2
Figure 2 Stool frequency and consistency in pediatric patients with acute diarrhea receiving either medium-chain triglyceride-containing lactose-free formula or standard lactose-free formula during the 7-day intervention period. A: Daily stool frequency (median values) in medium-chain triglyceride-containing lactose-free formula group (solid line) vs standard lactose-free formula group (dashed line); B: Daily assessment of stool consistency using the modified Bristol Stool Form Scale for Children, with medium-chain triglyceride-containing lactose-free formula group (black bars) and standard lactose-free formula group (gray bars). Modified Bristol Stool Form Scale for Children score of 3 represents normal stool consistency. MLF: Medium-chain triglyceride-containing lactose-free formula; SLF: Standard lactose-free formula; mBSFS-C: Modified Bristol Stool Form Scale for Children.
Table 3 Diarrhea improvement and other outcomes1.

Group MLF (n = 22)
Group SLF (n = 22)
P value
Diarrhea improvement outcomes
Change of stool frequency on discharge day compared to baseline (times/day)-7.5 (5.8)-4.0 (3.8)0.083
Duration of diarrhea (hours) 24.0 (21.5)45.0. (49.0)0.293
Length of hospitalization (days)2.0 (1.0)2.0 (1.0)0.825
Other outcomes
Amount of consumed formula until recovery (mL)900.0 (1291.6)1102.5 (696.3)0.391
Cost of consumed formula until recovery (THB)227.9 (0.0)373.6 (0.0)< 0.001
Other outcomes

No significant changes in body weight from baseline were observed during hospitalization [group MLF: 0.0 g (IQR: 470.0) vs group SLF: 39.0 g (IQR 687.5), P = 0.684] or at the follow-up visit [group MLF: -60.0 g (IQR 410.0) vs group SLF: 100.0 g (IQR 852.5), P = 0.573]. The incidence of vomiting decreased over time in both groups, with no significant differences at any time point. No other gastrointestinal adverse events, including bloating or constipation, were reported in either group throughout the study. The median product acceptance score was comparable at 4.0 (IQR: 1.8) for group MLF and 4.0 (IQR: 1.0) for group SLF, P = 0.350 (with the highest satisfaction score being 5 points). Perceived Maternal Parenting Self-Efficacy Questionnaire scores also did not significantly differ between groups [79.0 (IQR: 13.0) vs 74.0 (IQR: 8.00), P = 0.144]. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of the median volume of products consumed until recovery. The median formula intake was 900 mL (IQR: 1291.6) in group MLF and 1102.5 mL (IQR: 696.3) in group SLF (P = 0.391). The cost of the product used was significantly lower in group MLF (227.9 Thai Baht vs 373.6 Thai Baht, P < 0.001), as calculated in accordance with the product price list from IMS® Thailand healthcare index 2024.

Subgroup analysis: Viral group and nonviral infections

Subgroup analysis comparing the viral and nonviral infection groups revealed no statistically significant differences in diarrhea outcomes between the MLF and SLF groups. In the viral infection subgroup (n = 15), in group MLF, the median change in stool frequency was -8.0 (IQR: 7.8) times/day vs -3.0 (IQR: 0.5) in group SLF (P = 0.287), with diarrhea duration trends favoring group MLF (22 hours vs 68 hours, P = 0.162). Stool consistency scores showed comparable improvement trajectories between groups across all time points. For nonviral infections (n = 27), there was no significant difference (P = 0.156) between the two groups, but compared with group SLF (-4.0, IQR: 3.5 times/day), group MLF showed a trend toward a higher change in stool frequency (-8.0, IQR: 5.0 times/day). The duration of diarrhea was similar between the groups (44 hours vs 45 hours, P = 0.903).

DISCUSSION

Acute diarrhea remains a significant health problem for children under five years of age. Hospitalization may place financial burdens on families, particularly in resource-limited settings. Compared with standard treatments such as oral rehydration alone, dietary modifications, including the use of lactose-free formulas, have been suggested to reduce stool output, lower the risk of persistent diarrhea, and accelerate recovery[12]. Expert guidelines recommend early feeding with lactose-free or low-lactose diets in non-breastfed children to support gut recovery, digestive enzyme function, and weight gain[13].

In this randomized controlled trial, no statistically significant differences in clinical outcomes were observed between the two lactose-free formulas studied. The median difference in diarrhea duration was -4.0 hours (95%CI: -26.0 to 2.0), with the upper bound below the prespecified noninferiority margin of 12 hours. This confirms the noninferiority of MLF compared with SLF. Although not statistically significant, the group MLF tended to have a shorter diarrhea duration (P = 0.293) and a greater reduction in stool frequency (7.5 times/day vs 4.0 times/day, P = 0.083). Intake volume and caregiver-reported satisfaction were comparable between the groups, but due to its significantly lower cost, MLF might be considered a clinically viable and economical option. The 39% lower cost of MLF suggests that it could help reduce the cost of care for hospitalized children with acute diarrhea in settings where treatment cost and affordability are major considerations.

Many studies compare lactose-free formulas with lactose-containing formulas; however, our study is among the first to focus on two lactose-free formulas. The diarrhea durations observed in both groups in this study aligned with previous research in similar settings[14-16]. The lower proportion of rotavirus infections compared with that reported in the data from Thailand in 2004 (12% vs 50%)[17] may partially explain the relatively mild and brief diarrheal episodes in our cohort. Increased rotavirus vaccination over the past two decades and changes in viral epidemiology have likely contributed to this shift[18].

The composition of MLF differs from that of most SLFs, namely, in its fat component, which contains 50% of the component as MCT. This MCT composition was originally designed for children with digestive or absorptive disorders because of its easy absorption and fast metabolism[19]. Excessive MCT can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and osmotic diarrhea, but we detected no adverse gastrointestinal events in this study. This finding is consistent with previous studies reporting that moderate doses of MCT are generally well tolerated[20]. Additionally, MLF has casein as its sole protein component, which may raise concerns about curd formation and its appropriateness of use in infants. Recent data, however, suggest that casein-based formulas are well tolerated and nutritionally adequate in infants[21,22]. No differences in weight gain were observed between the groups, which is consistent with previous studies on acute diarrhea management[14,15]. Nonetheless, these findings may be due to the short intervention and follow-up periods of the study.

The strengths of this study are that it emphasized the comparison of the clinical effectiveness of two lactose-free formulas differing in fat and protein compositions (among other less remarkable compositions), as well as its integration of cost analysis. Our findings revealed that MLF was clinically effective and safe for treating childhood acute diarrhea, cost-saving, and comparably acceptable to patients and caregivers. These factors suggest the potential use of MLF in hospitalized children with acute diarrhea. Importantly, all participants tolerated the assigned formula equally, and no dropouts due to feeding intolerance occurred.

Limitations include the limited generalizability of the results to more severe patients due to the specific inclusion/exclusion criteria (for example, severely dehydrated or chronically ill patients were not enrolled). Furthermore, malnourished children who were not included in the cohort may have higher rates of lactose intolerance and greater potential benefit from lactose-free formulas[23,24] and perhaps from MCT. Future research should address these populations and evaluate long-term nutritional and developmental outcomes. A larger sample size may also help increase the differentiation power in subgroup analyses.

CONCLUSION

This randomized controlled trial demonstrated that MLF was noninferior to SLF in managing acute diarrhea among hospitalized children and offered significant cost advantages. These results support its consideration as a viable dietary management option in resource-limited settings.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors gratefully acknowledge the invaluable assistance of the laboratory staff, nurses, and research assistants at Phramongkutklao Hospital, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, and Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital for data collection. We also extend our sincere thanks to Thai Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., for providing the study formulas for this research.

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Footnotes

Provenance and peer review: Unsolicited article; Externally peer reviewed.

Peer-review model: Single blind

Specialty type: Pediatrics

Country of origin: Thailand

Peer-review report’s classification

Scientific Quality: Grade B

Novelty: Grade C

Creativity or Innovation: Grade B

Scientific Significance: Grade B

Open Access: This article is an open-access article that was selected by an in-house editor and fully peer-reviewed by external reviewers. It is distributed in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial (CC BY-NC 4.0) license, which permits others to distribute, remix, adapt, build upon this work non-commercially, and license their derivative works on different terms, provided the original work is properly cited and the use is non-commercial. See: https://creativecommons.org/Licenses/by-nc/4.0/

P-Reviewer: Mustafa AB, PhD, Full Professor, Senior Research Fellow, Libya S-Editor: Bai SR L-Editor: A P-Editor: Zhao S