Effect of antibiotics on physical and physiological development of children under 5-A scoping review

Dipali U Dumbre1, Seeta Devi1, Ranjana G Chavan1

  • 1Symbiosis College of Nursing, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, Maharashtra, India.

Insights

Antibiotics negatively impact physiological development in children under five, affecting weight, gut health, behavior, and increasing disease risk. Prudent antibiotic use is crucial for pediatric health.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Microbiology
  • Developmental Science

Background:

  • Antibiotic use in children under five is widespread.
  • Potential long-term effects on physiological development require thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate and compile the effects of antibiotics on the physiological development of children under five.
  • To inform evidence-based prescribing practices and guidelines for pediatric antibiotic use.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive scoping review of literature from PubMed, CINAHL, and Medline databases.
  • Utilized keywords such as "Antibiotics in children's," "Children under 5," and "Physiological Development."
  • Adherence to PRISMA checklist for data collection and extraction, employing MeSH terms for precise literature searching.

Main Results:

  • Antibiotic exposure in children under five is linked to obesity and altered gut microbiota.
  • Negative impacts observed on language development, behavior, and increased susceptibility to medical disorders.
  • Findings underscore the critical importance of informed antibiotic decision-making in pediatric care.

Conclusions:

  • Antibiotics significantly influence the physical and physiological development of young children.
  • Guidelines should incorporate potential long-term developmental effects when prescribing antibiotics.
  • Promote education on appropriate antibiotic use and explore alternative treatments like probiotics and vaccines.

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