Calcium supplementation for preterm and low birth-weight neonates
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N D Rao1, S B Bavdekar, K J Raghunandana
1Department of Pediatrics, Dr. R.N. Cooper Hospital, Irla, Bombay.
Insights
Oral calcium supplementation is as effective as intravenous calcium for preventing early neonatal hypocalcemia in preterm infants. This method also offers fewer side effects, lower costs, and easier administration.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Endocrinology
Background:
- Early neonatal hypocalcemia is a frequent complication in premature infants.
- Intravenous calcium therapy is commonly used for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and side effects of oral versus intravenous calcium supplementation in preterm and low birth-weight infants.
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness and ease of administration of different calcium supplementation routes.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving preterm and low birth-weight infants.
- Assessment of calcium levels and clinical outcomes between groups receiving oral or intravenous calcium.
- Evaluation of side effects, cost, and administration ease.
Main Results:
- Oral calcium administration demonstrated equivalent efficacy to intravenous administration across all gestational age and birth weight groups.
- Fewer and less severe side effects were observed with oral calcium supplementation.
- Oral supplementation offered additional benefits of lower cost and simpler administration.
Conclusions:
- Oral calcium supplementation is a safe and effective alternative to intravenous therapy for preventing early neonatal hypocalcemia in preterm infants.
- The oral route presents significant advantages in terms of side effect profile, cost, and ease of use, making it a preferred option.
Abstract:
Early neonatal hypocalcemia is a common problem in prematurely born infants. To prevent it, therapy with intravenous calcium is often advised. We compared the efficacy and side-effects of intravenous and oral calcium supplementation in preterm and low birth-weight babies. Both the groups were comparable for birth weight, gestational age and cord blood calcium level. Oral calcium administration was as efficacious as intravenous administration in babies of all gestational age groups and birth-weight groups. Side effects associated with therapy were less common and of lesser severity in oral supplementation group. Lower cost and ease of administration were additional benefits.