New anti-regurgitation infant formula (STELLAR) for babies with reflux
Official title: Study on the Efficacy and Tolerance of a New Anti-regurgitation Infant Formula: a Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled, International, Multi-centric Clinical Trial
Run by United Pharmaceuticals · NCT04358146 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial will test whether a new thickened infant formula reduces regurgitation in formula-fed babies with gastroesophageal reflux.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 2 Weeks to 4 Months |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 346 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | United Pharmaceuticals Industry-sponsored |
| Locations | 12 sites (Namur and 11 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 17, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 3, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 3, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | May 4, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04358146 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Formula-fed infants who have at least 2 regurgitations per day over the last two weeks and an average of at least 4 per day in the last two days, whose parents consent, and who meet the other inclusion criteria are eligible.
✕Probably not a fit
Preterm or low-birthweight infants, babies with suspected cow's milk protein allergy or post-enteritis lactose intolerance, and infants on interfering medications are unlikely to benefit from this formula in the study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This is a randomized, double-blind, controlled comparison of a new anti-regurgitation formula versus a comparator formula thickened with locust bean gum in formula-fed infants with reflux. After a two-day pre-selection period, eligible infants are randomized and followed for one month, with an optional additional two-month follow-up. The primary measure is change in regurgitation frequency and secondary measures include digestive tolerance. Standard exclusion criteria apply, including prematurity, low birthweight, cow's milk protein allergy, and recent use of medications that affect gastrointestinal transit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the formula could reduce the number of regurgitation episodes and improve feeding comfort for affected infants.
How similar studies have gone: Other trials of thickened formulas, including those using locust bean gum, have shown reductions in regurgitation, so this approach has prior supporting evidence.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * ≥ 2 regurgitation episodes per day during the last 2 weeks and ≥ 4 regurgitation episodes per day in average during the last 2 days, * exclusive or predominant formula feeding * whose parents signed informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * preterm infants or birthweight \<2500g * Post enteritis lactose intolerance * Suspected or diagnosed cow's milk protein allergy requiring an eviction diet * Use of medications that may interfere with regurgitation or gastrointestinal transit (such as alginates, laxatives, antibiotics...). All these medications have to be stopped at least 7 days before inclusion visit (V1) * Infants presenting with any situation which, according to the investigator, may interfere with the study participation, or lead to a particular risk for the subject
Where it's running
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Center_15
Thuin, Belgium Recruiting -
Center_02
Étampes, France Recruiting -
Center_05
Libourne, France Recruiting -
Centre_10
Maromme, France Recruiting -
Center_16
Nice, France Recruiting -
Center_08
Vincennes, France Recruiting
Show 6 more locations
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Center_01
Athens, Greece Recruiting -
Center_11
Thessaloniki, Greece Recruiting -
Center_12
Naples, Italy Recruiting -
Center_13
Naples, Italy Recruiting -
Center_14
Namur, Belgium Active not recruiting -
Center_09
Castelnau-le-Lez, France Active not recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Magalie JEGAT
- Email: m.jegat@novalac.com
- Phone: +330155372222
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.