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Proton pump inhibitor administration in neonates and infants. Lack of consensus - An ASPO survey
Gil Zoizner-Agar1, Janine M Rotsides1, Qianhui Shao1
1NYU Langone Health, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, NY, NY, USA.
Insights
Pediatric otolaryngologists lack consensus on using proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) for infant reflux. Current practice varies widely in dosage, frequency, and treatment line, highlighting the need for clear GER and LPR management guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) present with non-specific symptoms in children, with unknown prevalence.
- Proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use is increasing, but lacks clear guidelines, efficacy data, and has safety concerns.
- Physicians rely on anecdotal evidence for treating pediatric reflux conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate practice patterns of pediatric otolaryngologists concerning PPI use for reflux-related conditions in infants.
- To identify variations in prescribing habits for PPIs in newborns and infants.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO).
- The survey assessed practice patterns for PPI use in neonates and infants (10 weeks to 1 year).
- Statistical analysis, including Fisher's exact test, was employed.
Main Results:
- 37% of respondents would not prescribe oral PPIs in neonates; 50% would not prescribe IV PPIs.
- 60% would use PPIs as second or third-line treatment for infants, with only 10% using it as first-line.
- 48% prescribed PPIs once daily, and 19% twice daily, with no practice differences based on experience or patient volume.
Conclusions:
- No consensus exists on PPI dosage, frequency, or duration for infant reflux disease.
- Physician experience or practice setting did not correlate with prescribing patterns.
- A multidisciplinary approach and consensus statement are needed to guide GER and LPR management in pediatric populations.
Objective:
Laryngopharyngeal and Gastroesophageal reflux (LPR and GER) are distinct clinical entities that present with a range of non-specific symptoms. The exact prevalence in the pediatric population is unknown. While there has been an increase in the use of PPIs, lack of clear guidelines, conflicting evidence regarding efficacy and safety concerns with long-term use require physicians to use their own anecdotal experience and clinical judgement when treating patients. The goal of this study was to evaluate practice patterns among pediatric otolaryngologists regarding the use of proton-pump inhibitors for reflux-related conditions.
Methods:
A survey was submitted to American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members to determine practice patterns regarding use of PPIs for reflux-related conditions in the newborn and infant population. Statistical analysis using Fisher's exact test was performed.
Results:
37% of respondents would not prescribe PO PPIs in neonates, with 50% not prescribing IV PPIs. 60% would prescribe a PPI as second or third-line treatment for infants (10 weeks to 1-year). Only 10% would prescribe as first-line in this age group. 48% would prescribe PPIs once daily and 19% as BID. No significant practice differences exist based on years of experience, number of relevant patients seen, and setting of practice.
Conclusion:
There was no agreement regarding dosage, frequency and duration of PPI treatment for reflux disease in neonates and infants. There was also no correlation with experience or practice setting. This emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach and consensus statement to guide management of GER and LPR in this population.
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