Author/Authors :
Madani, A Neonatology Section, Department of Pediatrics, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz , Pishva, N. Neonatology Section, Department of Pediatrics, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz , Pourarian, Sh. Neonatology Section, Department of Pediatrics, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz , Zarkesh, M Neonatology Section, Department of Pediatrics, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz
Abstract :
Background: A great number of premature neonates do not
tolerate sufficient milk during the early neonatal period.
Objective: To evaluate the effect of oral erythromycin on
enhancement of feeding tolerance in preterm newborns.
Methods: Sixty preterm neonates intolerant to milk of >75
ml/kg/day during 5 days after the start of feedings, were
randomized into a treatment and a control groups. Oral
erythromycin (12.5 mg/kg/dose) was given to the treatment
group for a maximum of 10 days, or until full enteral feeding
(150 ml/kg/day) was tolerated.
Results: Oral erythromycin enhanced feeding tolerance in
premature neonates of ≥32 wks of gestation (p<0.032) with no
adverse effects and led to a shorter hospital stay (p<0.003) as
compared to the control group.
Conclusion: Oral erythromycin is an effective drug for
alleviating feeding intolerance in preterms.
