The barcode 8683130068120 is associated with a product commonly referred to as "K"—likely K-Cal Gold, a high-calorie, nutrient-dense medical food supplement used primarily for patients with severe malnutrition, chronic illness, or those requiring rapid weight gain (e.g., cancer patients, elderly individuals, or individuals with wasting syndromes).
Key Details:
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Product Name & Brand:
- K-Cal Gold (manufactured by Abbott Nutrition).
- This is a medical food, not a regular food item, and requires a prescription in many countries (including the U.S. and EU).
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Product Type & Composition:
- Caloric Density: ~1.5 kcal/mL (higher than standard nutritional supplements).
- Macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates (primary source of calories, ~67% of total calories).
- Fats (~30% of total calories, including medium-chain triglycerides for better absorption).
- Protein (~3% of total calories, though some formulations may vary).
- Micronutrients: Fortified with vitamins (A, C, D, E, K, B-complex) and minerals (calcium, iron, zinc, etc.).
- Flavor: Typically vanilla or chocolate (unflavored versions may exist for clinical use).
- Texture: Liquid concentrate (must be diluted with water or milk before consumption).
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Usage & Medical Indications:
- Prescribed for:
- Severe malnutrition (e.g., cachexia in cancer patients).
- Post-surgical recovery (to aid healing).
- Chronic diseases (e.g., HIV/AIDS, COPD, kidney disease).
- Elderly patients with poor oral intake.
- Not a meal replacement but a supplement to be used alongside a balanced diet.
- Dosage: Typically 2–4 bottles (340 mL each) per day, depending on clinical needs (consult a doctor or dietitian).
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Warnings & Concerns:
- Diabetic Risk: High in carbohydrates (may require insulin adjustments).
- Hypercaloric: Excessive intake can lead to weight gain, hyperglycemia, or lipid disorders if not monitored.
- Allergens: Contains soy lecithin (risk for soy allergies) and milk derivatives (lactose may be present).
- Storage: Must be refrigerated after opening (use within 28 days).
- Not for Children: Intended for adults only (pediatric use requires medical supervision).
- Drug Interactions: May interact with diabetes medications, steroids, or certain heart medications (consult a healthcare provider).
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Price (Approximate, U.S. Market as of recent data):
- Single bottle (340 mL): ~$15–$25 (varies by pharmacy and insurance coverage).
- Multi-bottle packs (e.g., 6–12 bottles): ~$80–$150 (often discounted).
- International Prices: Typically 20–50% higher in countries without generic alternatives.
- Insurance Coverage: Often partially or fully covered under Medicare (Part B) or private health plans in the U.S. if prescribed.
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Regulatory Status:
- FDA-approved as a medical food (not a drug or dietary supplement).
- Prescription Required: Cannot be purchased over-the-counter in most regions.
- Generic Alternatives: Brands like Nutren 2.0 or Ensure Plus may have similar formulations but differ in exact nutrient profiles.
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Health Disclaimer (for Consumable Products):
- This is a medical food, not a regular food item. Misuse (e.g., excessive consumption without medical supervision) can lead to serious health risks, including metabolic disturbances.
- Always follow a healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and usage.
- Not intended for weight loss—designed for nutritional rehabilitation, not calorie restriction.
Abort Notice:
If the barcode 8683130068120 does not correspond to K-Cal Gold (or another verified medical food product), the information provided may be inaccurate or misleading. In such cases, the product could be:
- A counterfeit or mislabeled item (risk of contamination or incorrect formulation).
- A different brand/model with a similar barcode (unlikely but possible due to manufacturing variations).
- Region-specific (barcodes can vary slightly by country or distributor).
If this is not K-Cal Gold, consult a healthcare professional or verified pharmaceutical database for accurate details.