Impacts of the Use of Caffeine Citrate on the Ponderal Evolution of Premature Newborn in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a Philanthropic Hospital in Salvador-Bahia-Brasil - Abstract
Introduction: Caffeine has been commonly used for the prevention and treatment of apnea-related symptoms in preterm infants. However, exposure to caffeine can influence
weight gain in this population.
Objectives: To evaluate the weight evolution of preterm newborns (NB), up to 34 weeks using caffeine citrate in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a philanthropic hospital
in Salvador-Bahia-Brazil.
Materials and Methods: This is a prospective longitudinal research with a descriptive character. The study evaluated the weight evolution of preterm infants up to 34 weeks
exposed to caffeine citrate at doses ranging from 5mg/kg to 10mg/kg. Preterm infants with sepsis confirmed by blood culture and premature infants with congenital anomalies of
the gastrointestinal tract were excluded from the study.
Preliminary Results: Premature infants who received a maintenance dose of caffeine >5mg/kg/day had a slight reduction in weight gain. The use of caffeine associated with
other factors did not have a negative impact on caloric gain. Premature infants < 32 weeks using caffeine required a higher intake of calories.
Final Considerations: Caffeine contributes positively to the treatment of apnea in prematurity, but its catabolic effect can result in less weight gain in preterm infants.