Vitaflo USA Introduces PKU Sphere™, A GMP-based Medical Food for Patients with Phenylketonuria
New Low-Phenylalanine Medical Food, Containing a Balanced Mix of GMP and Amino Acids Now Available
ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 26, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Vitaflo USA announces the launch of PKU Sphere™, a powdered, low phenylalanine medical food used in the dietary management of Phenylketonuria (PKU). PKU Sphere, is Vitaflo's first Glycomacropeptide (GMP) based medical food containing a balanced mix of GMP and amino acids.
Affecting approximately 1 in 15,000 people in the United States1, PKU is an inherited genetic disorder that reduces the ability to metabolize phenylalanine, an amino acid obtained through the diet. A buildup of phenylalanine can cause intellectual disability and other serious health problems if left untreated. GMP, a protein derived from milk that is naturally very low in phenylalanine, can help PKU patients meet their protein and nutrition needs.
"For a healthy life, patients living with PKU must follow a specific diet that limits phenylalanine for the rest of their lives, which can be a great challenge," said Jennifer Szymanski, General Manager, Vitaflo USA. "Launching PKU Sphere is the next step in our mission to create medical foods that combine clinically-supported benefits with the lifestyle needs of every patient we serve."
PKU Sphere has been specifically designed to address the unique nutritional needs of patients with PKU, offering low levels of phenylalanine and a balanced mix of GMP, essential and non-essential amino acids, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins, minerals, and DHA. Available in pre-measured packets, PKU Sphere can be used on its own or in combination with other Vitaflo formulas to help patients meet their protein needs. It is suitable for patients six years of age and older and available in two flavors, red berry and vanilla.
"There is emerging evidence in PKU linking GMP with potential benefits in improved protein utilization, bone health and gastrointestinal wellbeing," said Anita MacDonald, RD, Honorary Professor in Dietetics, Birmingham Children's Hospital. "With more than two years of experience using PKU Sphere in children and teenagers in the UK, we have assessed its acceptability and tolerance, plus its effects on plasma amino acid profiles, micronutrient levels and growth when compared with conventional supplements. Children are able to maintain good adherence with PKU Sphere, and with careful introduction and regular monitoring, it is a safe and effective alternative medical food for the management of PKU."
For more information about PKU Sphere formula, visit www.vitaflousa.com. Healthcare providers can request a copy of the PKU Sphere formula prescribing guidelines by contacting a Vitaflo USA sales representative or by calling Vitaflo at 888-848-2356. Patients should always contact their physician, dietitian or healthcare provider.
About Vitaflo
Vitaflo, a Nestlé Health Science Company, is at the forefront of developing innovative, specialized medical foods for metabolic disorders, pediatric renal disease, ketogenic diet, and other areas of disease specific nutrition. More information can be found on www.vitaflousa.com.
1 U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Genetics Home Reference, phenylketonuria
Contact: Allison Kassel, 703-739-8362
SOURCE Vitaflo USA
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