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Effect of domperidone on the QTc interval in premature infants

A Günlemez1, A Babaoğlu, A E Arisoy

  • 1Department of Neonatology, Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli, Turkey. aylagunlemez@yahoo.com

Journal of Perinatology : Official Journal of the California Perinatal Association
|July 24, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Domperidone use in premature infants did not significantly alter the corrected QT interval. Cautious administration of domperidone in modest doses appears safe for premature infants, though further research is needed.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Domperidone is used in neonates for gastrointestinal issues.
  • Concerns exist regarding its potential cardiac effects, specifically QT interval prolongation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the impact of domperidone on the corrected QT (QTc) interval in premature infants.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study involving 40 premature infants receiving domperidone.
  • Electrocardiograms (ECGs) were taken at baseline and 3, 7, and 14 days post-initiation.
  • QTc prolongation was defined as exceeding age-appropriate upper limits.

Main Results:

  • No statistically significant changes in QTc interval were observed during domperidone treatment.
  • Two infants experienced transient QTc prolongation without clinical symptoms, which resolved spontaneously.
  • Mean birth weight was 1109g, gestational age 28.8 weeks, and age at treatment onset 32.8 days.

Conclusions:

  • Domperidone, when used cautiously at modest doses, did not lead to significant arrhythmias or conduction defects in this cohort.
  • Additional studies are required to establish definitive safety guidelines for domperidone in premature infants.
Abstract

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