Abstract
The long term effects of drugs given in the neonatal period must be evaluated before their use can be recommended. Infants have been followed for from 6 to 24 months, to determine the outcome of treatment with caffeine for recurrent apnea (cessation of breathing > 20 sec and requiring assisted ventilation by bag and mask). 18 infants treated with caffeine citrate, available for follow-up, were compared to a group of infants with apneic spells of similar severity, individually matched as to birth weight, gestational age, birth date and sex.
In both groups a high incidence of R.L.F. (gr 1 to 5) 27% occurred. A significant reduction in the need for mechanical ventilation was noted for the infants treated with caffeine. Thus, the use of caffeine may reduce the need for mechanical ventilation for apnea, without apparent later complications.
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Gunn, T., Riley, P., Willis, D. et al. IS CAFFEINE FAFE FOR THE TREATMENT OF APNEA IN PREMATURE INFANTS?. Pediatr Res 11, 534 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197704000-00983
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197704000-00983