Lactose-free cow's milk–based (LF) formulas have the same protein source as standard formulas, but the usual milk sugar, lactose, is removed and replaced with another carbohydrate.

LF formulas may be a good choice for babies experiencing lactose intolerance. In particular, babies recovering from diarrhea may benefit from an LF formula. LF formulas may also be helpful for colicky babies.

LF formulas are not appropriate for infants with galactosemia, a rare disorder that makes them intolerant to one of the sugars that make up lactose.

LF formulas taste and smell very similar to standard milk-based formulas. Some LF formulas are patterned after breast milk, providing formula-fed babies optimal nutrition on a lactose-restricted diet.

• Has a whey-dominant protein like breast milk (60% lactalbumin) that is easy to digest.
  
  
• Is fortified with nucleotides, which have been shown to help prevent the recurrence of diarrhea.
  
  
• Tastes similar to standard infant formula, which makes it more acceptable to baby.
  
  
• Provides complete and balanced nutrition, including beta-carotene/mixed carotenoids.

Wyeth's lactose-free cow's milk–based (LF) formula meets all of these requirements.