Why do babies in NICU get caffeine?
Caffeine is one of the most widely used drugs in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). It is used to treat or prevent respiratory and lung problems in premature babies and to reduce the length of time that they need assistance with their breathing.
Why is caffeine used for apnea of prematurity?
Caffeine is a methylxanthine that is widely used to treat apnea of prematurity (AOP). In preterm infants, caffeine reduces the duration of respiratory support, improves survival rates and lowers the incidence of cerebral palsy and cognitive delay.
What is a Brady episode in an infant’s?
In newborns, a heart rate is termed bradycardia if it falls below 100 beats per minute in a baby less than 1250 g (2 lbs. 12 oz.) or to less than 80 beats per minute in a bigger baby. 4. When babies are in the NICU, their hearts are monitored, and episodes of bradycardia are treated with stimulation.
Is caffeine citrate the same as caffeine?
NOTE THAT THE DOSE OF CAFFEINE BASE IS ONE-HALF THE DOSE WHEN EXPRESSED AS CAFFEINE CITRATE (e.g., 20 mg of caffeine citrate is equivalent to 10 mg of caffeine base). Serum concentrations of caffeine may need to be monitored periodically throughout treatment to avoid toxicity.
What is the mechanism of action of caffeine citrate?
It binds competitively to the receptors for adenosine A1 and A2A, causing inhibition. Caffeine increases respiratory rate and minute volume, stimulates respiratory centers, and increases pulmonary blood flow and the sensitivity of central medullary areas to hypercapnia.
When is caffeine citrate used for in neonates?
Caffeine citrate injection is used to treat short-term apnea of prematurity when premature babies (infants between 28 and 32 weeks gestational age) stop breathing. Apnea of prematurity is caused by the baby’s breathing centers not being fully developed.
What benefit does caffeine citrate have over theophylline when treating premature infants for apnea of prematurity?
The drugs are equally effective in preventing apnea in the premature infant. Caffeine citrate has many advantages over theophylline, however, including once-a-day dosing, more predictable plasma concentrations, earlier onset of action, and minimal side effects.
What happens if you give a baby caffeine?
Effects of coffee on babies and toddlers Your baby’s body can’t handle it quite as easily, and a smaller amount can affect their functioning. Whereas you may feel energized, your baby may react to caffeine by acting jittery, anxious, or irritable. Your baby might even experience colic-like symptoms.