Mom has always had a J/G tube and we have clogging issues so we finally changed the tube to a PEG. It's narrow though--almost narrower than the J tube, so I have 2 questions. Bottom line is I need some recs for a new formula that one uses for stomach feeding.

1) Since her food is now going directly in the stomach, can we increase the rate? The tube is really narrow--I don't know if increasing the rate would clog the tube.

2) The formula she used with the J tube was Osmolite 1.5, which I understand has partially digested foods making it easier to be absorbed through her intestines. It would seem strange to put this formula in her stomach, although her Primary said it was fine. She is complaining of stomach cramps since she has had the new tube. She also needs something with calories.

Thanks for helping. It's kind of pathetic that I know of no place to get advice but here.

Hi Trishga:
I'm sure others will join in soon with more information for you - I had a PEG tube, but cannot remember the formula I had (lot of help I am) but I think any kind of formula (Carnation VHC Instant Breakfast, Boost) would work, along with lots of water. I'll search back and see if I can find the formula the RO and chemo drs. recommended, and if so, I'll send another message. My insurance paid for it, and it was delivered to my house. I just wanted you to know someone read your post, and others will soon. A big hug for your Mom (and you).
julieann

Trishga: I believe it was Jevity that I used at first.
julieann

Be care with the Carnation VHC. Its thick so you need to add a can of water per can of formula. What speed is your mother using now? If she has stomach cramps then right now is not a good time to up the speed, it will make it worse. I would try adding water to the formula and slowing it down a little. After feeding your mother should sit still for about a half hour to help her with the digestion. That should help her stomach cramps. There are many different prescription formulas that can be used. Make sure you discuss all this with whoever is prescribing the formula.

Jevity comes in different calories. Jevity 1.5 has worked great for me for two years. But I still dilute each can with either water, coffee or iced tea. The Peg tube should have somewhere on it how big it is. The measurements are in units called French (FR).
I started out with a 12 FR, then 14 FR and now have a 16 FR.
I didn't go bigger since I want to go to a button and every button has a 12 FR anti-reflux valve even if the tube is a large 24 FR (I think that's the usual size of a combo J and G tube.
The smaller the French size, the more likely it is to clog.
You sound like a great caregiver
Charm

The J/G tube I have always used is 18Fr. I asked for the next size and my doc said I had the largest one. Maybe he just didnt have any larger ones available???? Who knows, if I had the next size maybe this wouldnt wear out every 2 months. Trish, thats one advantage of a peg tube they seem to last a little longer than the J/G tubes. Good luck to your mom with her new peg.

My husband just switched from jevity to vital which is also made by Abbott. The rep recommended it because it is easily digested, has lots of omega 3s, and prebiotics. I would think your doc or dietitian would ultimately have to prescribe so that insurance will cover it. We go for a slow drip so the tummy stays much happier! Your mom will end up loving the PEG!!! It is so easy.

Best of luck,
Robinleigh