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Biochemical Measurement of Neonatal Hypoxia
Published on: August 24, 2011
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Zinc supplementation for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia: a randomized controlled trial
Ashok Kumar1, Narendra Kumar Bagri, Sriparna Basu
1Departments of Pediatrics and *Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India Correspondence to: Dr Ashok Kumar, Neonatal Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221 005, India. ashokkumar_bhu@hotmail.com.
Indian Pediatrics
|June 24, 2014
Summary
Oral zinc sulfate is not effective for treating idiopathic neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in newborns. Studies show no significant reduction in bilirubin levels or phototherapy duration, indicating zinc is not a viable treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is a common condition in newborns.
- Idiopathic neonatal hyperbilirubinemia requires effective management strategies.
- Oral zinc sulfate is being investigated as a potential therapeutic agent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of oral zinc sulfate in treating idiopathic neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
- To assess the impact of oral zinc on total serum bilirubin levels and phototherapy duration.
- To determine the safety and effectiveness of oral zinc supplementation in neonates.
Main Methods:
- A randomized placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 80 neonates.
- Participants received either oral zinc sulfate (10 mg/day) or a placebo for 7 days.
- Primary outcomes included total serum bilirubin levels at 48, 96, and 144 hours; secondary outcomes were phototherapy duration and serum zinc/copper levels.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in total serum bilirubin levels were observed between the zinc and placebo groups at any time point.
- The mean duration of phototherapy was not significantly reduced in the zinc group compared to the placebo group.
- Serum zinc levels increased significantly in the zinc group, while serum copper levels remained comparable.
Conclusions:
- Oral zinc sulfate (10 mg/day) is ineffective for managing idiopathic neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
- Zinc supplementation does not significantly alter bilirubin levels or reduce the need for phototherapy in neonates.
- Further research may be needed to explore alternative or adjunctive therapies for neonatal jaundice.
