Dexolac is an infant formula range made by Danone India. It is not a syrup or a medicine. Breast milk is the best first choice for babies, and exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months. Formula is used only when breastfeeding is not possible or a doctor advises it, so this guide explains the stages, main nutrients, safe preparation and precautions.
Last reviewed: November 2026. General information only, not medical advice. Contents and strengths can differ by manufacturer and batch, so always check your pack and follow your doctor.
Quick Facts
| Type | Infant milk formula (powder) |
| Maker | Danone India |
| Stage 1 and Premium 1 | 0 to 6 months |
| Hi-Kal | 0 to 24 months (a separate product) |
| Follow-up stages | Stage 2: 6 to 12 months; Stage 3: 12 to 18 months; Stage 4: 18 to 24 months |
Dexolac Infant Formula Composition
- Milk and whey proteins
- Vegetable-oil fats
- Lactose
- Vitamins A, C, D, E, K and B-complex
- Calcium, phosphorus, iron and zinc
- Taurine and nucleotides
- Follow-up stages add iron, vitamin C and zinc
- Premium and other variants may add extra ingredients, so check the current label
What Is Dexolac Infant Formula Used For?
- Starting formula when formula feeding is medically indicated (Stage 1)
- Follow-up nutrition after 6 months along with complementary foods (Stages 2 to 4)
- Dexolac Hi-Kal is a higher calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin D product
How It Works
Formula is designed to supply protein, fat, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals in amounts suited to a baby age. The Premium label reflects added ingredients and not a different safety standard.
How to Take It
Always follow the label. Use the scoop provided, boiled and cooled water at the recommended temperature, and never estimate the dilution. Wash and sterilise bottles, and discard leftover prepared milk as advised on the pack. Wrong mixing affects nutrition and safety.
Possible Side Effects
Feeding problems that need a paediatrician include:
- Persistent crying after feeds
- Repeated vomiting or spitting up
- Blood or mucus in stool
- Skin rash or hives
- Constipation or poor weight gain
Seek prompt medical care for repeated vomiting, blood in stool, breathing trouble, swelling or poor weight gain.
Precautions and Who Should Be Careful
- Breast milk is the best first choice and formula is not a first choice over it
- Ask a paediatrician before starting, switching or stopping any formula
- Standard formula is not suitable for galactosemia or confirmed cow milk protein allergy; lactose-free or special formulas may be needed
- Premature or low-birth-weight babies need a neonatologist or paediatrician to choose the formula
- Babies with a strong family history of food allergy need paediatric guidance first
- Choose a variant based on medical advice, not on extra ingredients or packaging claims
- Check the expiry date and keep the tin closed in a cool, dry place
Key Points to Remember
- Dexolac is an infant formula, not a medicine
- Stage 1 is for 0 to 6 months; follow-up stages cover 6 to 24 months
- Breast milk is the best first choice
- Exact mixing and clean bottles matter for safety
When to Contact a Doctor
- Your baby has rash, vomiting, blood in stool or poor weight gain
- You plan to switch formula
- Your baby was born early or has low birth weight
- There is a family history of allergy or lactose problems
Practical Tips
- Wash hands and sterilise bottles before every feed
- Follow the scoop and water amounts exactly
- Do not add cereal, sugar or honey to formula unless advised
- Hold your baby during feeds and watch for fullness cues
Questions to Ask Your Doctor or Pharmacist
- Is formula needed for my baby, or can we support breastfeeding?
- Which stage or variant suits my baby?
- How much per feed and how often?
- When should we add complementary foods?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dexolac?
It is an infant formula range made by Danone India, with Stage 1 for 0 to 6 months and follow-up stages for older babies.
Is Dexolac better than breast milk?
No. Breast milk is the best first choice, and formula is used when breastfeeding is not possible or a doctor advises it.
What is the difference between Dexolac 1 and Hi-Kal?
Hi-Kal is a separate product with higher calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin D, listed for 0 to 24 months, and is not simply the next stage.
Can I change the formula on my own?
Ask a paediatrician before starting, switching or stopping any formula.
Sources
Apollo: Dexolac formula variants explained · Apollo: Dexolac 3 formula guide