Treatment for Preterm Babies

Posted by Brenda Lane Feb 15, 2007

A January 2007 Review from the Cochrane Libraries (one of the most well-known and recognized medical research review groups) has recently examined the effectiveness of corticosteroids to treat babies who are born prior to 37 weeks' gestation.

The researchers looked at studies that compared corticosteroids to the effects of other drugs, placebos or no therapy. Only two studies could be included in the review, although researchers have identified that two additional studies that are currently underway could be included in future reviews.

Out of the total of 57 babies that were included from both studies, reseachers concluded that it was unclear about the safety or effectiveness of corticosteroid treatment for pre term infants. They found that "there is insufficient evidence to support the routine use of steroids in the treatment of primary or refractory neonatal hypotension."

Parents who have pre-term babies should then be asking good questions about any and all treatments for hypotension and the use of corticosteroids based on this information.

Brenda