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Aptamil Anti-Reflux Milk Formula From Birth 800g

Aptamil Anti-Reflux Milk Formula From Birth 800g

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  • ✔️ Specially thickened to reduce frequent regurgitation from birth
  • ✔️ Carob bean gum thickens on contact with stomach acid
  • ✔️ Suitable for bottle-fed babies from birth onwards
  • ✔️ Provides complete infant nutrition alongside reflux management
  • ✔️ 800g tub offers extended supply for ongoing dietary management

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What Is Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula and How Can It Help Your Baby?

 

If your baby brings up milk frequently after feeds, you are not alone. Regurgitation is one of the most common concerns parents raise with health visitors in the UK. Aptamil anti-reflux formula is a specially designed infant milk that has been thickened to help reduce how often your baby brings up their feed. It is suitable from birth and available over the counter, though the NHS recommends using it only on the advice of a healthcare professional. You can find it alongside other products in our baby and toddler range at Cured Pharmacy.

Reflux — or gastro-oesophageal reflux — happens when the muscle at the top of the stomach is not yet fully developed, allowing milk to travel back up the oesophagus. It is very common in young infants and usually improves on its own as babies grow. That said, frequent regurgitation can be distressing for both baby and parent, and a thickened formula can make a real difference to daily feeding.

 

How Does Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula Work?

 

The formula works by increasing the thickness of the feed, which makes it less likely to travel back up after swallowing. Here is how it achieves that:

  • It contains carob bean gum, a natural thickening agent derived from the seeds of the carob tree.
  • Once mixed with water and consumed, the formula thickens further in the stomach due to the acidic environment.
  • The increased viscosity helps the feed stay in the stomach for longer, reducing the frequency of regurgitation episodes.
  • It still provides the full nutritional profile expected of an infant formula, including vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids appropriate for babies from birth.

It is worth noting that thickened formulas are not the same as standard infant formula and should not be used interchangeably without guidance from your GP or health visitor.

 

Who Should Use Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

 

This formula is intended for bottle-fed babies who experience frequent, uncomplicated regurgitation. It is not a treatment for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), which is a more serious condition requiring medical assessment. Always speak to your GP or health visitor before switching your baby to a specialist formula.

  • Babies from birth who regularly bring up milk after feeds
  • Infants where standard formula appears to worsen regurgitation
  • Babies whose weight gain and general health are otherwise normal
  • Bottle-fed infants where breastfeeding is not possible or has been discontinued

 

How Does Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula Compare to Other Anti-Reflux Formulas?

 

Feature Aptamil Anti-Reflux 800g SMA Anti-Reflux
Thickening agent Carob bean gum Carob bean gum
Suitable from Birth Birth
Pack size 800g 820g
Protein base Whey-dominant Whey-dominant

 

How Should You Store Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

 

Store the tub in a cool, dry place below 25°C and away from direct sunlight. Once opened, always replace the lid securely and use the contents within four weeks. Never store made-up feeds at room temperature for more than two hours — if you are preparing feeds in advance, store them in the back of the fridge (not the door) and use within 24 hours. The NHS advises that feeds should be made fresh where possible to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.

If you are travelling or out and about, carry cooled boiled water separately and add the powder just before feeding. This aptamil anti-reflux formula should never be frozen, and any unused feed left in the bottle after a feed should be discarded immediately.

This product is a specialist infant formula. Speak to your doctor, health visitor, or pharmacist before using if your baby has an underlying medical condition or if you have any concerns about their feeding or growth.

Aptamil Anti-Reflux Milk Formula From Birth 800g specifications
Treatment category Specialist infant formula / dietary food for special medical purposes
Mechanism of action Thickened with carob bean gum to increase feed viscosity and reduce regurgitation
Effective for Frequent regurgitation in infants from birth
Suitable for Bottle-fed babies from birth
Active ingredient Carob bean gum (thickening agent)
Pack size 800g
UK classification General sale / dietary food for special medical purposes
Preparation Powder, reconstituted with boiled water
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Aptamil Anti-Reflux Milk Formula From Birth 800g

 

What Is Aptamil Anti-Reflux Milk Formula and What Is It Used For?

 

Aptamil Anti-Reflux Milk Formula From Birth 800g is a thickened infant formula designed as a dietary food for special medical purposes. It is intended for the dietary management of frequent regurgitation — commonly called reflux — in bottle-fed babies from birth. Reflux occurs when stomach contents travel back up into the oesophagus, often causing the baby to bring up milk after feeds. According to the NHS, most babies with reflux do not need medication and symptoms usually improve as they grow, but a thickened formula can help manage the frequency of regurgitation in the meantime.

This formula is not a medicine in the traditional sense, but it is classified as a food for special medical purposes and should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is not intended to treat gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), which requires separate medical assessment and management.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

 

Before switching your baby to this formula, there are some important things to consider. Not every baby who brings up milk needs a specialist formula — your health visitor or GP should assess your baby first.

Do not use this formula if your baby:

  • Has a confirmed or suspected cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA)
  • Has galactosaemia or any condition requiring a lactose-free diet
  • Has been diagnosed with a condition requiring a specific therapeutic formula
  • Is being breastfed — this formula is for bottle-fed infants only

Warnings and precautions:

  • Always prepare feeds following the instructions on the pack exactly — incorrect preparation can be harmful
  • Do not add extra scoops or dilute the formula beyond the stated instructions
  • Thickened formulas may require a teat with a larger hole — check with your pharmacist or health visitor
  • If your baby's symptoms worsen, they lose weight, or you notice blood in their vomit, seek medical advice immediately

Known interactions:

  • No known drug interactions with this formula
  • Do not mix with other formula types without professional guidance

 

How Should You Use Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

 

Always prepare feeds fresh where possible. The NHS advises that powdered infant formula is not sterile, so careful preparation is essential to reduce the risk of infection.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing a feed.
  2. Sterilise all feeding equipment — bottles, teats, and lids — before use.
  3. Boil fresh tap water and allow it to cool to no less than 70°C (this kills any harmful bacteria in the powder).
  4. Pour the correct amount of water into the sterilised bottle first.
  5. Using the scoop provided, add the correct number of level scoops of formula — do not pack the powder down.
  6. Replace the teat and lid, then shake the bottle well until the powder is fully dissolved.
  7. Cool the feed to a safe feeding temperature by holding the bottle under cold running water or placing it in a bowl of cold water.
  8. Test the temperature on the inside of your wrist before feeding — it should feel lukewarm, not hot.
  9. Discard any unused feed remaining in the bottle after the feed is complete.
Age Number of feeds per day Water per feed (ml) Scoops per feed
Birth – 2 weeks 6–7 60ml 2
2 weeks – 2 months 5–6 90ml 3
2–4 months 5 120ml 4
4–6 months 4–5 150–180ml 5–6

These are approximate guidelines only. Every baby is different, and your health visitor can advise on the right amount for your baby's individual needs. If you are also managing other health concerns in the family, our vitamins and supplements range may be of interest for parental wellbeing.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

 

As with any change in infant feeding, some babies may experience a period of adjustment. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but it is important to know what to look out for.

Common side effects:

  • Constipation or harder stools — thickened formulas can slow gut transit in some babies
  • Changes in stool colour or consistency
  • Temporary increase in wind or bloating as the baby adjusts

Less common side effects:

  • Skin rash or eczema — may indicate sensitivity to an ingredient; seek medical advice
  • Excessive crying or irritability that does not improve
  • Poor weight gain — if your baby is not gaining weight as expected, contact your GP promptly

If you notice blood in your baby's vomit or stools, or if your baby seems to be in significant pain, stop using the formula and seek urgent medical advice.

 

How Should You Store Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

 

  • Store the sealed tub in a cool, dry place below 25°C
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat
  • Once opened, replace the lid firmly and use within 4 weeks
  • Do not store made-up feeds at room temperature for more than 2 hours
  • If preparing feeds in advance, store in the back of the fridge and use within 24 hours
  • Never freeze the formula powder or a prepared feed
  • Keep out of reach of children

For parents managing other aspects of infant and family health, you may also find our indigestion range helpful for adult digestive concerns alongside your baby's care routine.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula online in the UK?

You can buy Aptamil Anti-Reflux Milk Formula From Birth 800g online from Cured Pharmacy for £19.99, with convenient delivery to your door. It is available without a prescription but should be used on the advice of a healthcare professional such as your GP or health visitor. Browse our full baby and toddler range for related products.

How does Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula work in the body?

Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula is thickened with carob bean gum, which increases the viscosity of the feed once it enters the stomach's acidic environment. This makes the feed less likely to travel back up the oesophagus, reducing how often your baby regurgitates. It does not treat the underlying cause of reflux but helps manage the symptom of frequent bringing up of milk.

How do I prepare Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula step by step?

Boil fresh tap water and allow it to cool to no less than 70°C, then pour the correct volume into a sterilised bottle before adding the measured scoops of powder. Shake well until fully dissolved, then cool to a safe feeding temperature before offering to your baby. Always follow the preparation guide printed on the tub and discard any unused feed after the feed is complete.

What is the correct dose of Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula for my baby?

The number of scoops and volume of water depends on your baby's age and weight — the tub includes a feeding guide as a starting point. Every baby's appetite varies, so your health visitor or GP can give personalised advice on the right amount. Never add extra scoops or dilute the formula beyond the stated instructions, as this can affect your baby's nutrition.

What are the side effects of Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

The most commonly reported side effect is constipation or harder stools, as thickened formulas can slow gut transit in some babies. Some infants may also experience temporary wind or bloating during the adjustment period. If your baby develops a rash, loses weight, or seems to be in significant discomfort, stop using the formula and speak to your GP promptly.

How do I manage constipation if my baby gets it on anti-reflux formula?

If your baby becomes constipated after starting a thickened formula, speak to your health visitor or GP before making any changes to the feed. They may suggest adjusting the volume of feeds or switching to an alternative formula. Do not add extra water to the formula or give water separately to young babies without professional advice, as this can affect their sodium balance.

Who is Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula suitable for?

This formula is suitable for bottle-fed babies from birth who experience frequent, uncomplicated regurgitation and are otherwise growing and developing normally. It is not suitable for babies with a confirmed cow's milk protein allergy, galactosaemia, or those who require a lactose-free diet. Always get a healthcare professional's recommendation before switching your baby to a specialist formula.

Is Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula suitable for babies with cow's milk allergy?

No — Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula contains cow's milk protein and is not suitable for babies with a confirmed or suspected cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA). If your baby shows signs of CMPA, such as a rash, blood in stools, or persistent crying, speak to your GP who may refer you to a specialist or prescribe a hypoallergenic formula. Do not use this formula as a substitute for an allergy-specific product.

What are the alternatives to Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

Other anti-reflux formulas available in the UK include SMA Anti-Reflux and Cow & Gate Anti-Reflux, both of which also use carob bean gum as a thickening agent. Your GP or health visitor can help you decide which is most appropriate for your baby's individual needs. In some cases, positional changes after feeding or smaller, more frequent feeds may also help reduce regurgitation without needing to change formula.

How long can my baby stay on Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

Most babies with reflux improve naturally as they grow and become more upright, typically by around 12 months of age. Your GP or health visitor will advise on when it is appropriate to transition back to a standard infant formula. Continued use beyond what is clinically necessary should always be reviewed with a healthcare professional.

Can I use Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula alongside breastfeeding?

Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula is designed for bottle-fed babies and is not intended to be mixed with breast milk. If you are combination feeding, speak to your health visitor or GP before introducing any specialist formula alongside breastfeeding. They can help you find the most appropriate feeding plan for your baby's needs.

Does Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula need a larger teat?

Because the formula is thicker than standard infant formula, it may flow more slowly through a standard teat, which can make feeding frustrating for your baby. Many parents find that using a teat with a slightly larger hole helps the feed flow more easily. Ask your pharmacist or health visitor for guidance on the most suitable teat size for thickened formulas.

What happens if I accidentally make up the formula incorrectly?

If you add too many scoops, the formula becomes too concentrated and can put strain on your baby's kidneys; too few scoops means your baby may not get enough nutrition. If you realise you have made an error, discard the feed and prepare a fresh one following the instructions carefully. If you are concerned your baby has consumed an incorrectly prepared feed, contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice.

What does the latest research say about thickened formula for infant reflux?

Clinical evidence suggests that thickened formulas can reduce the visible frequency of regurgitation episodes in infants, though they do not necessarily reduce the total number of reflux events detected on pH monitoring. The NHS and NICE guidance recommend thickened formula as a first-line dietary intervention for frequent regurgitation before considering medication. Always discuss the evidence with your GP or health visitor to make an informed decision for your baby. You can also explore our indigestion section for adult digestive health information.

How should I store Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula once opened?

Once opened, store the tub in a cool, dry place below 25°C with the lid firmly replaced, and use the contents within four weeks. Made-up feeds should be stored in the back of the fridge and used within 24 hours, or discarded after two hours if left at room temperature. Never freeze the powder or a prepared feed, and always check the expiry date on the base of the tub before use.

How Should You Use Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

Always prepare feeds fresh where possible, using freshly boiled water that has been allowed to cool to no less than 70°C. This temperature is important because powdered infant formula is not sterile, and water at 70°C or above helps to destroy any harmful bacteria that may be present in the powder. Follow these steps every time you prepare a feed:

What Is the Correct Dose of Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

Feed volumes should be guided by your baby's age, weight, and appetite. The table below provides approximate guidance based on the manufacturer's feeding guide, but your health visitor or GP can advise on the right amount for your individual baby. Never add extra scoops or reduce the amount of water, as this can affect your baby's nutrition and hydration.

When Is the Best Time to Use Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula should be used at every feed in place of your baby's usual formula, not just at certain times of day. Consistency is important — using it only occasionally is unlikely to provide the full benefit of the thickening effect. Try to feed your baby in a slightly upright position and keep them upright for at least 20–30 minutes after each feed to further help reduce regurgitation.

How Long Can You Use Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula For?

This formula can be used from birth for as long as your baby needs dietary support for frequent regurgitation. Most babies naturally outgrow reflux as they become more upright and begin weaning, typically around 12 months. Your GP or health visitor should review your baby's feeding regularly and advise when it is appropriate to transition back to a standard infant formula. Do not continue using a specialist formula beyond what is clinically necessary without professional guidance.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

The most frequently reported side effect when using a thickened infant formula is constipation or a change in stool consistency. Because the formula is thicker than standard infant milk, it can slow the movement of food through the gut in some babies, leading to harder or less frequent stools. This is usually temporary and tends to improve as your baby adjusts to the new formula.

  • Constipation or infrequent stools
  • Harder or firmer stools than usual
  • Increased wind or flatulence
  • Temporary bloating or a distended tummy

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

Some babies may experience less common reactions, particularly if they have an underlying sensitivity to one of the formula's ingredients. These are not typical but are worth being aware of, especially in the first few weeks of use.

  • Skin rash or eczema flare — may suggest sensitivity to cow's milk protein
  • Excessive crying or irritability that does not settle
  • Reduced appetite or reluctance to feed
  • Slower than expected weight gain

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula?

Serious reactions to this formula are rare, but there are certain signs that should prompt you to seek medical attention without delay. If your baby vomits blood or you notice blood in their stools, this is not a normal side effect and requires urgent assessment by a GP or at your nearest A&E. Similarly, if your baby appears to be in significant pain, is arching their back persistently, or is failing to gain weight, these symptoms may indicate an underlying condition such as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) or cow's milk protein allergy that needs proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If your baby develops mild constipation, speak to your health visitor or GP before making any changes to the formula preparation or volume. Do not add extra water to the feed or switch formulas without professional advice. For any skin reactions, persistent crying, or concerns about your baby's growth, contact your GP promptly. In the case of a serious reaction — such as blood in vomit or stools, difficulty breathing, or signs of severe distress — seek emergency medical help immediately.

Can Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula Interact With Other Products?

There are no known interactions between Aptamil Anti-Reflux Formula and medicines. However, if your baby has been prescribed any medication — such as ranitidine or omeprazole for reflux — always inform your GP that you are also using a thickened formula, as this may affect how the medication works or whether it is still needed. Do not mix this formula with other formula types or add any additional thickening agents, as this can make the feed dangerously thick and difficult for your baby to swallow safely.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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