Randomised controlled study of oral erythromycin for treatment of gastrointestinal dysmotility in preterm infants

Prokinetic effect of erythromycin in the management of gastroparesis in critically ill patients-our experience and literature review

Introduction

Gastroparesis is a disorder characterized by impaired gastric emptying and the accumulation of food in the intestines without any clear mechanical cause. Gastroparesis in critical care patients is a prevalent issue in the intensive care unit. The disruption of normal gastrointestinal motility in critically ill patients is linked to a significant risk of intolerance to enteral feeding, colonization of the gastrointestinal tract with pathogenic bacterial strains, increased permeability of the intestinal wall, translocation of the intestinal microbiota, leading to progressive malnutrition, and potential development of bacterial infection.

Materials and methods

The literature was reviewed to assess the benefits and risks associated with the use of this medication.

Aim

The aim of the study was to treat the symptoms of gastroparesis and stimulate gastrointestinal motility. Consequently, the aim was to reduce the amount of backed-up food content in the stomach, accelerate gastrointestinal motility, and return to intestinal feeding.

Results

Gastroparesis is a frequent issue among patients in the intensive care unit. Critical illness can lead to gastrointestinal motility disorders, causing slowed gastric emptying. This increases the risk of problems such as intolerance to enteral feeding, regurgitation, and aspiration of gastrointestinal contents into the respiratory tract, as well as colonization of the gastrointestinal tract by pathogens. Over time, impaired intestinal absorption can result in malnutrition, necessitating the initiation of parenteral nutrition.

Conclusion

After analysis of the literature and published scientific reports, as well as considering their own research, it is evident that erythromycin, as a prokinetic drug, effectively enhances gastrointestinal motility. This contributes to stimulating gastric emptying in critically ill patients with gastroparesis who are hospitalized in an intensive care unit. The use of erythromycin in combination with metoclopramide and/or itopride hydrochloride allows for a synergistic effect, leading to the quickest possible return to enteral feeding.

Impact of Erythromycin as a Prokinetic on the Gut Microbiome in Children with Feeding Intolerance-A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Studies have demonstrated that the gut microbiome changes upon exposure to systemic antibiotics. There is a paucity of literature regarding impact on the gut microbiome by long-term usage of erythromycin ethyl succinate (EES) when utilized as a prokinetic.

METHODS

Stool samples from pediatric patients with feeding intolerance who received EES (N = 8) as a prokinetic were analyzed for both bacteriome and mycobiome. Age-matched children with similar clinical characteristics but without EES therapy were included as controls (N = 20).

RESULTS

In both groups, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes were the most abundant bacterial phyla. Ascomycota was the most abundant fungal phyla, followed by Basidiomycota. There were no significant differences in richness between the groups for both bacterial and fungal microbiome. Alpha diversity (at genus and species levels) and beta diversity (at the genus level) were not significantly different between the groups for both bacterial and fungal microbiome. At the species level, there was a significant difference between the groups for fungal microbiota, with a p-value of 0.029. We also noted that many fungal microorganisms had significantly higher p-values in the EES group than controls at both genera and species levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In this observational case-control study, the prokinetic use of EES was associated with changes in beta diversity between the groups for mycobiome at the species level. Many fungal microorganisms were significantly higher in the EES group when compared to the controls. Confirmation of these results in larger trials will provide further evidence regarding the impact of EES on gut microbiota when utilized as a prokinetic agent.

Ten controversies in gastroparesis and a look to the future

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is a complex, challenging gastrointestinal disorder presenting with upper gastrointestinal symptoms, especially nausea and vomiting, with significant impact on patients' quality of life. After ruling out mechanical obstruction, it is essential to identify delay in gastric emptying for definitive diagnosis. The most common causes are idiopathic (no identified etiology), diabetes mellitus, and postsurgical status. Management of gastroparesis focuses on dietary modifications and treatment directed to symptom relief. Unfortunately, approximately one-third of patients are refractory to pharmacological therapy, and the effectiveness of the few nonpharmacological options has been questioned.

PURPOSE

Extensive review of the literature identifies several uncertainties or controversies regarding the differential diagnosis based on the spectrum of symptoms, the lack of availability of reliable diagnostic test, and questions regarding effective therapeutic options. In this review, we discuss ten controversies regarding gastroparesis: clinical presentation, diagnosis, overlap syndromes, pathophysiology, etiology, as well as pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapeutic options. In addition, we briefly review studies exploring pathological, inflammatory, and molecular disturbances affecting the intrinsic neuromuscular elements that may be involved in the pathophysiology of gastroparesis and may constitute possible therapeutic targets in the future. Finally, we tabulate future research opportunities to resolve these controversies in the management of patients with gastroparesis.

Low-dose erythromycin in pediatrics: Formulation and stability of 20 mg hard gelatin capsules

OBJECTIVE

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is also prescribed off-label in premature neonates as a prokinetic agent. There is no oral formulation with dosage and/or excipients adapted for these high-risk patients.

METHODS

Clinical studies of erythromycin as a prokinetic agent were reviewed. Capsules of 20 milligrams of erythromycin were compounded with microcrystalline cellulose. Erythromycin capsules were analyzed using the chromatographic method described in the United States Pharmacopoeia which was found to be stability-indicating. The stability of 20 mg erythromycin capsules stored protected from light at room temperature was studied for one year.

RESULTS

20 mg erythromycin capsules have a beyond use date not lower than one year.

CONCLUSION

20 milligrams erythromycin capsules can be compounded in batches of 300 unities in hospital pharmacy with a beyond-use-date of one year at ambient temperature protected from light.

Diagnosis and management of food allergy-associated gastroesophageal reflux disease in young children-EAACI position paper

Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) and food allergy (FA) are common conditions, especially during the first 12 months of life. When GOR leads to troublesome symptoms, that affect the daily functioning of the infant and family, it is referred to as GOR disease (GORD). The role of food allergens as a cause of GORD remains controversial. This European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) position paper aims to review the evidence for FA-associated GORD in young children and translate this into clinical practice that guides healthcare professionals through the diagnosis of suspected FA-associated GORD and medical and dietary management. The task force (TF) on non-IgE mediated allergy consists of EAACI experts in paediatric gastroenterology, allergy, dietetics and psychology from Europe, United Kingdom, United States, Turkey and Brazil. Six clinical questions were formulated, amended and approved by the TF to guide this publication. A systematic literature search using PubMed, Cochrane and EMBASE databases (until June 2021) using predefined inclusion criteria based on the 6 questions was used. The TF also gained access to the database from the European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology working group, who published guidelines on GORD and ensured that all publications used within that position paper were included. For each of the 6 questions, practice points were formulated, followed by a modified Delphi method consisting of anonymous web-based voting that was repeated with modified practice points where required, until at least 80% consensus for each practice point was achieved. This TF position paper shares the process, the discussion and consensus on all practice points on FA-associated GORD.

Efficacy comparison between oral erythromycin versus domperidone for the treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm neonates

BACKGROUND

Domperidone and erythromycin are commonly used as prokinetic agents for feeding intolerance in preterm neonates; however, no data from a previous study have compared their efficacy. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of orally administered domperidone and erythromycin for the treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm infants.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included preterm neonates with a birthweight of <1800 g and gestational age <37 weeks. Data were collected from medical records at Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health (QSNICH) from 2006 to 2014. The primary outcome was the time to establish full enteral feeding (150 ml/kg/day) after starting oral domperidone or erythromycin for the treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm neonates. The secondary outcome was adverse effects associated with domperidone and erythromycin therapy.

RESULTS

Among the 150 preterm neonates enrolled in this study, 66 received domperidone, and 84 received erythromycin. The baseline characteristics and comorbidities were not significantly different between the two groups; however, the gestational age at birth of neonates in the domperidone group was significantly lower than that of those in the erythromycin group. The time to establish full enteral feeding did not differ between the domperidone (11 days, "IQR," [6, 17]) and erythromycin (10 days, IQR [7, 14]) groups (p = 0.622). No major adverse effects were noted. There were only three preterm infants who had elevated liver enzymes in each group, but the difference between groups was not significant.

CONCLUSION

From this study, the efficacy of oral domperidone was promising equivalent to oral erythromycin and seems to be one of the treatment options for feeding intolerance in preterm neonates. However, large randomized, controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of domperidone in this population.

Macrolides for the prevention and treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm low birth weight infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The role of macrolides for the prevention and treatment of feeding intolerance (FI) in preterm low birth weight (LBW) infants has not been well established. To assess the efficacy and safety of macrolides to prevent or treat FI in preterm LBW infants. A systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO ID: CRD42020170519) was conducted for English articles published since inception to March 2020, using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. Search terms included preterm low birth weight infants, macrolides, erythromycin, azithromycin, clarithromycin, and feeding intolerance. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of macrolide therapy on the time to achieve full enteral feeding (FEF;150 mL/kg/day), duration of parenteral nutrition (PN), hospitalization, and adverse events in preterm LBW infants were included. Independent extraction of data was done by both authors using predefined data-sheet. Very-low to low-quality evidence from 21 RCTs, 19 for erythromycin (prophylaxis-6, rescue-13) and 2 for clarithromycin (prophylaxis-1, rescue-1) demonstrated a significantly beneficial role of erythromycin for an earlier FEF, both as a prophylaxis (SMD-0.53, 95% CI - 0.74,- 0.33; 6 studies, n = 368) as well as rescue (SMD-1.16, 95% CI - 1.88, - 0.44; 11 studies, n = 664). Rescue therapy was also beneficial for a significant reduction in the duration of PN, hospitalization, incidences of sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, and cholestasis. No arrhythmia or infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis was reported.Conclusions: Erythromycin therapy, both as prophylaxis and rescue, is beneficial to reduce the time to achieve FEF in preterm LBW infants, at no higher risk of adverse events.Trial registration: PROSPERO ID: CRD42020170519.

Optimal dose and duration of enteral erythromycin as a prokinetic: A surgical intensive care experience

BACKGROUND

Enteral feeding has various advantages over parenteral feeding in critically ill patients. Acutely ill patients are at risk of developing enteral feeding intolerance. Prokinetic medications improve gastrointestinal mobility and enteral feed migration and absorption. Among the available prokinetic agents, erythromycin is the most potent. Erythromycin is used in different dosages and durations with variable efficacy. Intravenous erythromycin has an early and high rate of tachyphylaxis; hence, enteral route is preferred. Recently, the combination of prokinetic medications has been increasingly used because they accelerate the prokinetic action and decrease the adverse effects.

AIM

This study aimed to determine the optimal effective prokinetic dose and duration of administering enteral erythromycin in combination with metoclopramide in critically ill patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study has a prospective observation design. After obtaining permission from the medical research center of the institution, all patients in the surgical and trauma intensive care unit having enteral feed intolerance and those who were already on metoclopramide for 24 hour (h) were enrolled in the study. Patients' demographic data, diagnosis, surgical intervention, disease severity scores, erythromycin dose, duration of administration, any adverse effects, factors affecting erythromycin response, and outcome were recorded. All patients received 125 mg syrup erythromycin twice daily through a nasogastric tube (NGT). The NGT was clamped for 2 h, and half amount of previous enteral feeds was resumed. If the patient did not tolerate the feeds, the erythromycin dose was increased every 24 h in the increment of 250, 500, and 1000 mg (Figure 1). Statistical significance was considered at P <  0.05. A total of 313 patients were enrolled in the study. Majority of the patients were male, and the mean age was 45 years.

RESULTS

Majority (48.2%) of the patients (96) with feed intolerance were post laparotomy. Ninety percent (284) of the patients responded to prokinetic erythromycin therapy, and 54% received lower dose (125 mg twice daily). In addition, 14% had diarrhea, and none of these patients tested positive for Clostridium difficile toxin or multidrug resistance bacteria. The mean duration of erythromycin therapy was 4.98 days. The most effective prokinetic dose of erythromycin was 125 mg twice daily (P = 0.001). Erythromycin was significantly effective in patients with multiple organ dysfunction and shock (P = 0.001). Patients with high disease severity index and multiple organ dysfunction had significantly higher mortality (p < 0.05). Patients not responding to erythromycin therapy also had a significant higher mortality (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Post-laparotomy patients had high enteral feed intolerance. Enteral erythromycin in combination with metoclopramide was effective in low dose and was required for short duration. Patients who did not tolerate feeds despite increasing dose of erythromycin had higher mortality.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Foregut Dysmotility in Children with Intestinal Failure

Gastrointestinal dysmotility is a common problem in a subgroup of children with intestinal failure (IF), including short bowel syndrome (SBS) and pediatric intestinal pseudo-obstruction (PIPO). It contributes significantly to the increased morbidity and decreased quality of life in this patient population. Impaired gastrointestinal (GI) motility in IF arises from either loss of GI function due to the primary disorder (e.g., neuropathic or myopathic disorder in the PIPO syndrome) and/or a critical reduction in gut mass. Abnormalities of the anatomy, enteric hormone secretion and neural supply in IF can result in rapid transit, ineffective antegrade peristalsis, delayed gastric emptying or gastroesophageal reflux. Understanding the underlying pathophysiologic mechanism(s) of the enteric dysmotility in IF helps us to plan an appropriate diagnostic workup and apply individually tailored nutritional and pharmacological management, which might ultimately lead to an overall improvement in the quality of life and increase in enteral tolerance. In this review, we have focused on the pathogenesis of GI dysmotility in children with IF, as well as the management and treatment options.

Update on pediatric gastroparesis: A review of the published literature and recommendations for future research

BACKGROUND

Due to scarcity of scientific literature on pediatric gastroparesis, there is a need to summarize current evidence and identify areas requiring further research. The aim of this study was to provide an evidence-based review of the available literature on the prevalence, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of pediatric gastroparesis.

METHODS

A search of the literature was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines with the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science. Two independent reviewers screened abstracts for eligibility.

KEY RESULTS

Our search yielded 1085 original publications, 135 of which met inclusion criteria. Most articles were of retrospective study design. Only 12 randomized controlled trials were identified, all of which were in infants. The prevalence of pediatric gastroparesis is unknown. Gastroparesis may be suspected based on clinical symptoms although these are often non-specific. The 4-hour nuclear scintigraphy scan remains gold standard for diagnosis despite lack of pediatric normative comparison data. Therapeutic approaches include dietary modifications, prokinetic drugs, and postpyloric enteral tube feeds. For refractory cases, intrapyloric botulinum toxin and surgical interventions such as gastric electrical stimulation may be warranted. Most interventions still lack rigorous supportive data.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnosis and treatment of pediatric gastroparesis are challenging due to paucity of published evidence. Larger and more rigorous clinical trials are necessary to improve outcomes.

Childhood gastroparesis is a unique entity in need of further investigation

BACKGROUND

Despite increasing knowledge regarding gastroparesis (GP) in adults, little is known regarding the incidence, prevalence, and natural history of childhood GP. Exacerbating the knowledge gap in pediatric GP is both the lack of normative data for gastric emptying scintigraphy in children and lack of GP-specific pediatric reported outcome measures.

PURPOSE

The aim of this article was to review the available literature on pediatric GP and identify similarities and differences with studies in adults. We performed a comprehensive search in MEDLINE and Google Scholar from inception to April 2019 for articles published in English using the following combination of keywords: gastroparesis, pediatric gastroparesis, outcomes, metoclopramide, erythromycin, domperidone, cisapride, and gastric neurostimulator. The limited available pediatric data, often retrospective, suggest marked differences between adult and pediatric GP in several aspects including etiology, concomitant co-morbidities (eg, psychiatric disorders), clinical symptom presentation, diagnostic evaluation, response to therapies, and clinical outcome. Further research in pediatric GP is needed and holds the promise to further elucidate the mechanisms of this disorder in children and lead to pediatric-focused therapies.

Association between exposure to macrolides and the development of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Macrolides are bacteriostatic antibiotics with a broad spectrum of activity against Gram-positive bacteria. The aim of this study was to systematically review and meta-analyze the association between infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) and macrolides. Nine databases were searched systematically for studies with information on the association between macrolides and IHPS. We combined findings using random effects models. Our study revealed 18 articles investigating the association between macrolides and IHPS. There was a significant association between the development of IHPS and erythromycin (2.38, 1.06-5.39). The association was strong when erythromycin was used during the first 2 weeks of life (8.14, 4.29-15.45). During breastfeeding, use of macrolides showed no significant association with IHPS in infants (0.96, 0.61-1.53). IHPS was not associated with erythromycin (1.11, 0.9-1.36) or macrolides use during pregnancy (1.15, 0.98-1.36).Conclusions: There is an association between erythromycin use during infancy and developing IHPS in infants. However, no significant association was found between macrolides use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Additional large studies are needed to further evaluate potential association with macrolide use. What is known? • Erythromycin intake in the first 2 weeks of life is associated with an increased risk of pyloric stenosis. What is New? • There is currently no evidence of significant association between macrolides use during pregnancy or breastfeeding and pyloric stenosis.

The association of prenatal and postnatal macrolide exposure with subsequent development of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The association between macrolides use and subsequent occurrence of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) is still debatable. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between perinatal exposure to macrolides, mainly erythromycin, and the development of pyloric stenosis.

Methods

Original studies were identified using MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library databases. Studies investigating the association between perinatal exposure to macrolides and pyloric stenosis were included. The most adjusted effect estimates were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. The I² and Egger’s tests were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias, respectively.

Results

Fourteen papers (12 retrospective cohort studies and two case-control studies) were included. For postnatal exposure, the overall estimate of seven cohort studies indicated a statistically significant association (RR = 3.17, 95% CI: 2.38–4.23; I² = 10.0%) with no evidence of publication bias (Egger P = 0.81). For prenatal exposure, six cohort studies and two case-control studies were included. Meta-analysis demonstrated a statistically significant association in the cohort studies (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.03–2.09; I² = 29.3%), but not in the case-control studies (OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.66–1.58; I² = 51.2%). The overall pooled result was not statistically significant. Only two studies were included for exposure through breastfeeding, and the estimates did not show a statistically significant association (OR = 1.31; 95% CI: 0.42–4.1; I² = 69.1%).

Conclusions

The study demonstrated good evidence of association between development of IHPS and direct postnatal exposure to macrolides. However, the evidence on the effects of prenatal exposure or postnatal maternal exposure (breastfeeding) is not conclusive.

Adverse events in people taking macrolide antibiotics versus placebo for any indication

BACKGROUND

Macrolide antibiotics (macrolides) are among the most commonly prescribed antibiotics worldwide and are used for a wide range of infections. However, macrolides also expose people to the risk of adverse events. The current understanding of adverse events is mostly derived from observational studies, which are subject to bias because it is hard to distinguish events caused by antibiotics from events caused by the diseases being treated. Because adverse events are treatment-specific, rather than disease-specific, it is possible to increase the number of adverse events available for analysis by combining randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of the same treatment across different diseases.

OBJECTIVES

To quantify the incidences of reported adverse events in people taking macrolide antibiotics compared to placebo for any indication.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), which includes the Cochrane Acute Respiratory Infections Group Specialised Register (2018, Issue 4); MEDLINE (Ovid, from 1946 to 8 May 2018); Embase (from 2010 to 8 May 2018); CINAHL (from 1981 to 8 May 2018); LILACS (from 1982 to 8 May 2018); and Web of Science (from 1955 to 8 May 2018). We searched clinical trial registries for current and completed trials (9 May 2018) and checked the reference lists of included studies and of previous Cochrane Reviews on macrolides.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included RCTs that compared a macrolide antibiotic to placebo for any indication. We included trials using any of the four most commonly used macrolide antibiotics: azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, or roxithromycin. Macrolides could be administered by any route. Concomitant medications were permitted provided they were equally available to both treatment and comparison groups.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently extracted and collected data. We assessed the risk of bias of all included studies and the quality of evidence for each outcome of interest. We analysed specific adverse events, deaths, and subsequent carriage of macrolide-resistant bacteria separately. The study participant was the unit of analysis for each adverse event. Any specific adverse events that occurred in 5% or more of any group were reported. We undertook a meta-analysis when three or more included studies reported a specific adverse event.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 183 studies with a total of 252,886 participants (range 40 to 190,238). The indications for macrolide antibiotics varied greatly, with most studies using macrolides for the treatment or prevention of either acute respiratory tract infections, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal conditions, or urogynaecological problems. Most trials were conducted in secondary care settings. Azithromycin and erythromycin were more commonly studied than clarithromycin and roxithromycin.Most studies (89%) reported some adverse events or at least stated that no adverse events were observed.Gastrointestinal adverse events were the most commonly reported type of adverse event. Compared to placebo, macrolides caused more diarrhoea (odds ratio (OR) 1.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.34 to 2.16; low-quality evidence); more abdominal pain (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.22 to 2.26; low-quality evidence); and more nausea (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.37 to 1.90; moderate-quality evidence). Vomiting (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.56; moderate-quality evidence) and gastrointestinal disorders not otherwise specified (NOS) (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.56 to 3.00; moderate-quality evidence) were also reported more often in participants taking macrolides compared to placebo.The number of additional people (absolute difference in risk) who experienced adverse events from macrolides was: gastrointestinal disorders NOS 85/1000; diarrhoea 72/1000; abdominal pain 62/1000; nausea 47/1000; and vomiting 23/1000.The number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) ranged from 12 (95% CI 8 to 23) for gastrointestinal disorders NOS to 17 (9 to 47) for abdominal pain; 19 (12 to 33) for diarrhoea; 19 (13 to 30) for nausea; and 45 (22 to 295) for vomiting.There was no clear consistent difference in gastrointestinal adverse events between different types of macrolides or route of administration.Taste disturbances were reported more often by participants taking macrolide antibiotics, although there were wide confidence intervals and moderate heterogeneity (OR 4.95, 95% CI 1.64 to 14.93; I² = 46%; low-quality evidence).Compared with participants taking placebo, those taking macrolides experienced hearing loss more often, however only four studies reported this outcome (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.70; I² = 0%; low-quality evidence).We did not find any evidence that macrolides caused more cardiac disorders (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.40; very low-quality evidence); hepatobiliary disorders (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.27 to 4.09; very low-quality evidence); or changes in liver enzymes (OR 1.56, 95% CI 0.73 to 3.37; very low-quality evidence) compared to placebo.We did not find any evidence that appetite loss, dizziness, headache, respiratory symptoms, blood infections, skin and soft tissue infections, itching, or rashes were reported more often by participants treated with macrolides compared to placebo.Macrolides caused less cough (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.80; moderate-quality evidence) and fewer respiratory tract infections (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.80; moderate-quality evidence) compared to placebo, probably because these are not adverse events, but rather characteristics of the indications for the antibiotics. Less fever (OR 0.73, 95% 0.54 to 1.00; moderate-quality evidence) was also reported by participants taking macrolides compared to placebo, although these findings were non-significant.There was no increase in mortality in participants taking macrolides compared with placebo (OR 0.96, 95% 0.87 to 1.06; I² = 11%; low-quality evidence).Only 24 studies (13%) provided useful data on macrolide-resistant bacteria. Macrolide-resistant bacteria were more commonly identified among participants immediately after exposure to the antibiotic. However, differences in resistance thereafter were inconsistent.Pharmaceutical companies supplied the trial medication or funding, or both, for 91 trials.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The macrolides as a group clearly increased rates of gastrointestinal adverse events. Most trials made at least some statement about adverse events, such as "none were observed". However, few trials clearly listed adverse events as outcomes, reported on the methods used for eliciting adverse events, or even detailed the numbers of people who experienced adverse events in both the intervention and placebo group. This was especially true for the adverse event of bacterial resistance.

Optimizing the Use of Medications and Other Therapies in Infant Gastroesophageal Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is the retrograde movement of gastric (and sometimes duodenal) contents into the esophagus. While the majority of GER is physiologic, for patients, it can be associated with symptoms. While some symptoms are merely bothersome (crying), others can be life threatening (cough, gagging, choking). The main driver of GER in infants is the frequent feedings that produce increased intra-abdominal pressure, which is known to trigger transient relaxations of the lower esophageal sphincter. The recent 2018 clinical practice guidelines reported by the North American and European Societies for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN/ESPGHAN) have recommended non-pharmacologic management initially with subsequent consideration of brief trials with acid suppressants. The main target for these acid suppressants is the gastric parietal cells. Our review of the literature has revealed a paucity of data regarding the use of histamine-2 receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors in infants. Despite the absence of well-controlled clinical studies, the prescription rate of these medications has increased internationally. Risks to patients of all ages have become increasingly recognized, with new associations being reported all too often. Here we report our review of all pharmacologic modalities as well as some non-surgical options.

Influence of high-dose oral erythromycin on feeding intolerance in preterm neonates: A randomized controlled trial

Background: Feeding intolerance is a common complication in preterm neonates and is responsible for prolonged hospitalization. This study aimed at assessing the effects of high-dose oral erythromycin on feeding intolerance in preterm infants. Methods: A randomized, double blinded, placebo-controlled trial was performed during 2014 and 2015 (Tehran-Iran). Preterm neonates aged >14 days, who met the feeding intolerance criteria were selected for the study and their medical records were randomly assigned into 2 groups by simple randomization. Infants in group A received 10 mg/kg oral erythromycin every 6 hours for 2 days, followed by 4 mg/kg oral erythromycin every 6 hours for 5 days; and infants in group B received placebo with the same route. The number of days until reaching complete oral feeding, day of discharge from NICU, and complications related to intervention were recorded and compared between the 2 groups. Independent samples t test, Mann-Whitney, Fischer exact test, and Chi square were used to analyze the relationships between variables. P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 20 infants in group A received erythromycin and 20 infants in group B received placebo. Erythromycin could not alter the mean volume of feeding, duration of parental feeding, length of hospitalization, and frequency of feeding discontinuity (p>0.05); however, mean days to reach complete feeding in group A was significantly shorter than in group B (9.80 vs. 16.80 days; p=0.001). Conclusion: High-dose erythromycin as a rescue measure with no potential adverse effect is beneficial in reducing the time taken to achieve full enteral feeding. However, more extensive investigations are needed to determine the best administration dosage.

A pioneering study: oral clarithromycin treatment for feeding intolerance in very low birth weight preterm infants

PURPOSE

To examine the prokinetic effect of clarithromycin in very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

VLBW preterm infants who have not achieved half of the full enteral feeding in the second week of life were enrolled in the study. The infants enrolled in the study were randomized. Twenty infants received oral clarithromycin (7.5 mg/kg, twice a day) and 20 control infants did not receive any treatment.

RESULTS

Full enteral feeding was attained earlier in the clarithromycin group than in the control group [7 (6-9) versus 9 (9-11) days, respectively; p < .001]. Duration of parenteral nutrition and number of withheld feeds were significantly lower in the clarithromycin group (p = .013 and p < .001, respectively). Parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (n = 1 versus 3, p = .1) and length of hospital stay (50 versus 59 median days, p = .1) tend to be lower in the clarithromycin group without any statistical significance. We observed no adverse effect of clarithromycin therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Clarithromycin treatment in VLBW preterm infants resulted in better toleration of enteral feeding. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to establish routine use of clarithromycin in the treatment of feeding intolerance.

Post-natal erythromycin exposure and risk of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Macrolide antibiotics, erythromycin, in particular, have been linked to the development of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS). Our aim was to conduct a systematic review of the evidence of whether post-natal erythromycin exposure is associated with subsequent development of IHPS.

METHODS

A systematic review of postnatal erythromycin administration and IHPS was performed. Papers were included if data were available on development (yes/no) of IHPS in infants exposed/unexposed to erythromycin. Data were meta-analysed using Review Manager 5.3. A random effects model was decided on a priori due to heterogeneity of study design; data are odds ratio (OR) with 95 % CI.

RESULTS

Nine papers reported data suitable for analysis; two randomised controlled trials and seven retrospective studies. Overall, erythromycin exposure was significantly associated with development of IHPS [OR 2.45 (1.12-5.35), p = 0.02]. However, significant heterogeneity existed between the studies (I 2 = 84 %, p < 0.0001). Data on erythromycin exposure in the first 14 days of life was extracted from 4/9 studies and identified a strong association between erythromycin exposure and subsequent development IHPS [OR 12.89 (7.67-2167), p < 0.00001].

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates a significant association between post-natal erythromycin exposure and development of IHPS, which seems stronger when exposure occurs in the first 2 weeks of life.

Pharmacological therapy of gastroesophageal reflux in preterm infants

Although gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a very common phenomenon among preterm infants, its therapeutic management is still an issue of debate among neonatologists. A step-wise approach should be advisable, firstly promoting nonpharmacological interventions and limiting drugs to selected infants unresponsive to the conservative measures or who are suffering from severe GER with clinical complications. Despite of this, a concerning pharmacological overtreatment has been increasingly reported. Most of the antireflux drugs, however, have not been specifically assessed in preterm infants; moreover, serious adverse effects have been noticed in association to their administration. This review mainly aims to draw the state of the art regarding the pharmacological management of GER in preterm infants, analyzing the best piecies of evidence currently available on the most prescribed anti-reflux drugs. Although further trials are required, sodium alginate-based formulations might be considered promising; however, data regarding their safety are still limited. Few piecies of evidence on the efficacy of histamine-2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors in preterm infants with GER are currently available. Nevertheless, a significantly increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis and infections has been largely reported in association with their use, thereby leading to an unfavorable risk-benefit ratio. The efficacy of metoclopramide in GER's improvement still needs to be clarified. Other prokinetic agents, such as domperidone and erythromycin, have been reported to be ineffective, whereas cisapride has been withdrawn due to its remarkable cardiac adverse effects.

Clarithromycin treatment in preterm infants: a pilot study for prevention of feeding intolerance

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of oral clarithromycin versus placebo treatment in preventing feeding intolerance in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants.

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective, randomised controlled trial in which two groups of preterm infants (birth weight <1500 g) were randomised to clarithromycin (7.5 mg/kg/dose every 12 h) or placebo treatment. During the period, 38 infants, whose parents accepted participation, were enrolled in the study. Feeding intolerance and time to achieve full enteral feeding were considered as primary outcome measures.

RESULTS

Feeding intolerance was significantly longer in placebo than clarithromycin (p = 0.031). Time to achieve full feeding after beginning the treatment was equal among the groups.

CONCLUSION

This is the first randomised controlled study of clarithromycin and placebo treatment that compares the improvement of feeding intolerance in VLBW infants. Our findings indicate a dramatic improvement in feeding intolerance after oral clarithromycin treatment. But according to our results, clarithromycin-treated infants were not able to attain full enteral feeding more quickly than placebo. This may be due to prophylactic usage of clarithromycin. Significant differences might have resulted if only infants who had feeding intolerance were recruited.

Metoclopramide, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors: pharmacotherapy for gastroesophageal reflux in neonates

Pharmacotherapy for gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in neonates, aimed at interfering with this physiologic process and potentially reducing the negative sequelae that providers often attribute to GER, consists primarily of drugs that increase the viscosity of feeds, reduce stomach acidity, or improve gut motility. Medications used to treat clinical signs thought to be from GER, such as apnea, bradycardia, or feeding intolerance, are among the most commonly prescribed medications in neonatal intensive care units in the United States, despite the lack of evidence of safety and efficacy in this population.

Efficacy of intermediate-dose oral erythromycin on very low birth weight infants with feeding intolerance

BACKGROUND

Erythromycin is generally used as a prokinetic agent for the treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm infants; however, results from previous studies significantly vary due to different medication dosages, routes of administration, and therapy durations. The effectiveness and safety of intermediate-dose oral erythromycin in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with feeding intolerance was examined in this study.

METHODS

Between November 2007 and August 2009, 45 VLBW infants with feeding intolerance, who were all at least 14 days old, were randomly allocated to a treatment group and administered 5mg/kg oral erythromycin every 6hours for 14 days (n=19). Another set of randomly selected infants was allocated to the control group, which was not administered erythromycin (n=26).

RESULTS

The number of days required to achieve full enteral feeding (36.5±7.4 vs. 54.7±23.3 days, respectively; p=0.01), the duration of parenteral nutrition (p<0.05), and the time required to achieve a body weight ≥2500g (p<0.05) were significantly shorter in the erythromycin group compared with the control group. The incidence of parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (PNAC) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) ≥ stage II after 14 days of treatment were significantly lower (p<0.05) in the erythromycin group. No significant differences were observed in terms of the incidences of sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or retinopathy of prematurity. No adverse effects were associated with erythromycin treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Intermediate-dose oral erythromycin is effective and safe for the treatment of feeding intolerance in VLBW infants. The incidences of PNAC and ≥ stage II NEC were significant lower in the erythromycin group.

A controlled trial of erythromycin and UDCA in premature infants during parenteral nutrition in minimizing feeding intolerance and liver function abnormalities

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of oral erythromycin versus ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment in preventing feeding intolerance and liver function abnormalities.

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective, double blind, randomized, controlled trial in which three groups of preterm infants (birth weight <1500 g) were randomized to erythromycin (12.5 mg kg(-1) per day), UDCA (5 mg kg(-1) every 6 h) or placebo treatment. During the period 352 infants were admitted to our unit of which 75 infants whose parents accepted participation were enrolled in the study. Full enteral feeding or intestinal failure-associated liver disease was considered as the primary outcome measures.

RESULTS

Time to achieve full feeding after beginning the treatment was significantly shorter in the erythromycin group (P=0.014). γ-Glutamyl transpeptidase levels in the placebo group were significantly higher than in the intervention groups (P=0.001). GTT level was slightly lower in UDCA groups than erythromycin.

CONCLUSION

Oral erythromycin was most effective in facilitating enteral feeding and UDCA was most effective in preventing cholestasis in very low birth weight infants. Prophylactic usage of UDCA could be considered in infants with prolonged parenteral nutrition.

Parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis: an American Pediatric Surgical Association Outcomes and Clinical Trials Committee systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to review evidence-based data addressing key clinical questions regarding parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (PNAC) and parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease (PNALD) in children.

DATA SOURCE

Data were obtained from PubMed, Medicine databases of the English literature (up to October 2010), and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

STUDY SELECTION

The review of PNAC/PNALD has been divided into 4 areas to simplify one's understanding of the current knowledge regarding the pathogenesis and treatment of this disease: (1) nonnutrient risk factors associated with PNAC, (2) PNAC and lipid emulsions, (3) nutritional (nonlipid) considerations in the prevention of PNAC, and (4) supplemental medications in the prevention and treatment of PNAC.

RESULTS

The data for each topic area relevant to the clinical practice of pediatric surgery were reviewed, evaluated, graded, and summarized.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the conditions of PNAC and PNALD have been well recognized for more than 30 years, only a few concrete associations and treatment protocols have been established.

Use of prokinetics in the preterm infant

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Functional gastrointestinal dysmotility is a common condition that affects premature infants. Delay in achievement of full enteral nutrition results in dependence on prolonged parenteral nutrition, predisposing to adverse outcomes. Studies in recent years show apparently conflicting results regarding the use of prokinetic agents in preterm infants. This review aims to evaluate these studies to determine whether use of these agents in premature infants is beneficial and justified.

RECENT FINDINGS

Randomized controlled trials in recent years have been performed to investigate the effectiveness of erythromycin in the treatment of nonobstructive gastrointestinal dysmotility in preterm infants. Overall, neither low-dose regimes nor prophylactic trials have been shown to be useful. High-dose regimes used as rescue therapy of infants with established gastrointestinal dysmotility have consistently shown clinical benefit. Theoretical risks of prolonged antibiotic use, such as emergence of antibiotic resistance and abnormal intestinal microbiota, have not been fully evaluated.

SUMMARY

Judicious use of high-dose erythromycin in premature infants as rescue therapy is probably justifiable. Further research in this area is warranted to develop newer prokinetic agents which may improve the safety profile of therapy.

Randomized controlled trial of a high dose of oral erythromycin for the treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm infants

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of high-dose erythromycin to treat feeding intolerance in preterm infants predominantly fed milk formula.

DESIGN

This study is a prospective randomized controlled trial on 60 premature infants suffering from feeding intolerance. Thirty infants were given oral erythromycin ethylsuccinate at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day for 10 days or until they reached full enteral feeds. Randomization was stratified according to gestational age <32 weeks or ≥32 weeks gestation. The primary end point was the time taken to establish full enteral feeding since enrollment. Potential adverse effects associated with erythromycin were also monitored. Student's t test was used for comparison of continuous variables and χ(2)for categorical data.

RESULTS

In infants <32 weeks, the use of erythromycin was associated with more daily weight gain (12.8 ± 2.6 g vs. 9.2 ± 5.3 g, p = 0.04) compared to the control group. Time to reach full feed did not differ between the erythromycin (13.8 ± 3.9 days) and the control (17.46 ± 4.9 days) groups (p = 0.07). In infants ≥32 weeks, there were no differences between the erythromycin and the control groups.

CONCLUSION

High-dose erythromycin is associated with greater weight gain in preterm infants <32 weeks gestational age, who are predominantly fed cow's milk-based protein formulas.

Hypothyroxinemia and effectiveness of thyroxin supplementation in very low birth weight infants with abdominal distension and poor weight gain

BACKGROUND

Very low birth weight (VLBW) infants sometimes develop abdominal distension and poor weight gain. The influence of thyroid function on these symptoms in VLBW infants has not been reported.

METHODS

In a retrospective study, 18 VLBW infants whose abdominal distension and poor weight gain did not improve with standard treatment were enrolled as subjects. Serum levels of free thyroxin (fT(4)) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were measured. Subjects with serum fT(4) levels less than 1.3 ng/dl received thyroxin supplementation. Another 18 VLBW infants were recruited as age- and weight-matched controls. We compared degree of intestinal dilation on X-ray, weight gain, and quantity of milk tolerated before and after starting thyroxin supplementation in the subjects and the controls.

RESULTS

All subjects had serum fT(4) levels less than 1.3 ng/dl (mean, 0.72 ng/dl). TSH values varied widely and were less than 8 microU/ml in 12 subjects. Therefore, all subjects received thyroxin supplementation; after starting this, mean serum fT(4) level increased significantly to 1.31 ng/dl. In parallel with fT(4) increase, intestinal dilation improved in 16 of 18 subjects (mean grade of dilation decreased from 2.8 to 1.6). Weight gain and quantity of tolerated milk were significantly increased with thyroxin supplementation in all and 17 of the 18 subjects, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Thyroxin supplementation was effective in improving abdominal symptoms in VLBW infants whose serum fT(4) level was less than 1.3 ng/dl.

Erythromycin establishes early oral feeding in neonates operated for congenital intestinal atresias

PURPOSE

The recovery of gastrointestinal function following surgery for congenital intestinal atresias can be prolonged and may increase morbidity and hospital stay. This study was conducted to investigate the prokinetic effect of erythromycin in neonates undergoing surgery for small bowel atresias.

METHODS

A randomized-controlled trial was conducted at the Departments of Paediatrics and Paediatric Surgery, Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from January to December 2007 to study the prokinetic effect of erythromycin (3 mg/kg per dose 4 times daily). Thirty consecutive neonates undergoing primary anastomosis for congenital small bowel atresias were randomly divided into two groups: group I (erythromycin) and group II (control). The groups were similar in terms of gestational age, sex, mode of delivery, birth weight and types of atresias. Postoperative recovery of intestinal functions was measured as time taken to achieve full enteral feed (150 ml/kg per 24 h), duration of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and hospital stay.

RESULTS

Neonates receiving oral erythromycin achieved full enteral feeding early (13.07 vs. 16.13 days) required TPN for shorter duration (10.53 vs. 13.73 days) and their hospital stay was less (16.2 vs. 18.0 days) as compared to the neonates in the control group who did not receive any erythromycin. The differences were statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The administration of oral erythromycin following primary anastomosis for small intestinal atresias results in early recovery of intestinal function, fewer days on TPN and a trend for shorter hospital stay.

Erythromycin lacks colon prokinetic effect in children with functional gastrointestinal disorders: a retrospective study

Background

Motilin, a peptide hormone has a direct excitatory effect on circular smooth muscle strips derived from the human colon. Reduced plasma motilin concentration has been reported in adults with chronic constipation. Erythromycin, a non-peptide motilin receptor agonist, induces phase 3 of the migrating motor complex (MMC) in the antro-duodenum and also reduces oro-cecal transit time. A pediatric study has reported an improvement in clinical symptoms of constipation following erythromycin administration, but the effect on colon motility in children has not been formally evaluated. We used colon manometry to study the effect of intravenous erythromycin lactobionate at 1 mg/kg on colon motiltiy in ten children.

Methods

We selected patients with normal antroduodenal and colon manometry studies that were performed simultaneously. All studies were performed for clinically indicated reasons. We quantified the effect of erythromycin on colon contraction by calculating the area under the curve (AUC).

Results

The mean (SE of mean) AUC in the colon during the fasting, post-erythromycin and postprandial phases of the study was 2.1 mmHg/sec (0.35), 0.99 mmHg/sec (0.17) and 3.05 mmHg/sec (0.70) respectively. The AUC following erythromycin was significantly less compared to the fasting phase of the study (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Erythromycin lacks colon prokinetic effect in children with chronic constipation evaluated by colon manometry.

Erythromycin for the prevention and treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Functional immaturity of gastrointestinal motility predisposes preterm infants to feeding intolerance. Erythromycin is a motilin agonist that exerts its prokinetic effect by stimulating propagative contractile activity in the interdigestive phase.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of erythromycin in the prevention and treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm infants.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Systematic literature search was performed according to the Cochrane Neonatal Collaborative Review Group search strategy. Randomized controlled trials of erythromycin in preterm infants to promote gastrointestinal motility were identified from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, The Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2007), MEDLINE (1966 - December 2007), EMBASE (1980 - December 2007), CINAHL (1982 - December 2007), cross-references, abstracts, and journal hand searching.

SELECTION CRITERIA

The initial selection criteria limited the review to studies using erythromycin at 3 - 12 mg/kg/day in preterm infants less than 36 weeks gestational age with feeding tolerance. However, a significant number of studies using erythromycin at a higher dose (> 12 mg/kg/day) or as prophylaxis for those at risk of feeding intolerance were identified. A post hoc decision was made to include these studies in the review.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Studies were categorized into prevention and treatment studies, and data from each category were analyzed separately. Within each category, subgroup analyses were performed based on low (3 to 12mg/kg/day) and high doses (> 12mg/kg/day) of erythromycin. Primary outcome was days to full enteral feeding. Secondary outcomes included adverse effects associated with erythromycin, duration of total parenteral nutrition (TPN), weight gain, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and length of hospital stay.

MAIN RESULTS

Ten randomized controlled studies (three prevention and seven treatment studies) were included. Studies varied greatly in the definition of feeding intolerance and how outcomes were measured, analyzed and reported, so meta-analysis of most outcomes was impossible. It was observed, however, that the studies using erythromycin at higher treatment doses (40 to 50 mg/kg/day) or in infants > 32 weeks' GA reported more positive effects in improving feeding intolerance.Meta-analysis of high dose prevention studies showed no significant difference in NEC (typical RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.11, 3.01; typical RD -0.021, 95% CI -0.087, 0.045). Meta-analysis of high dose treatment studies showed no significant difference in septicemia (typical RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.47, 1.45; typical RD -0.04, 95% CI -0.17, 0.08).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of erythromycin in low or high doses for preterm infants with or at risk of feeding intolerance. Future research is needed to determine if there is a more precise dose range where erythromycin might be effective as a prokinetic agent in preterm infants > 32 weeks' GA.

Gastrointestinal maturation and implications for infant feeding

The level of gastrointestinal (GI) maturity of an individual infant is a major determinant of whether the infant will be able to meet nutritional needs by sole use of the GI tract or if parenteral means will be necessary. The GI tract is not only an organ for digestion and absorption of nutrients; it also performs major endocrine, neural and immunologic functions. In this review, anatomic, functional and biochemical development will be described and related to means by which enteral nutrition can be used in the prematurely born infant to optimize health and prevent disease.

High-dose oral erythromycin decreased the incidence of parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis in preterm infants

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Feeding intolerance because of functional gastrointestinal dysmotility and parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (PNAC) are common problems in preterm, very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants. This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study aimed to assess the effectiveness of "high-dose" oral erythromycin as a prokinetic agent in decreasing the incidence of PNAC. Two secondary end points, including the time to achieve full enteral feeding and the duration of parenteral nutrition, were also evaluated.

METHODS

Infants consecutively admitted to the neonatal unit were randomized to receive erythromycin (12.5 mg/kg/dose every 6 hours for 14 days) or an equivalent volume of normal saline (placebo) if they attained less than half the total daily fluid intake (<75 mL/kg/day) as milk feeds on day 14 of life.

RESULTS

Of 182 VLBW infants enrolled, 91 received erythromycin. The incidence of PNAC was significantly lower in erythromycin-treated infants (18/91) compared with placebo infants (37/91; P = .003). Treated infants achieved full enteral nutrition significantly earlier (mean, 10.1; SE, 1.7 days; P < .001), and the duration of parenteral nutrition was also significantly decreased by 10 days (P < .001). Importantly, fewer infants receiving erythromycin had 2 or more episodes of septicemia (n = 4) compared with placebo patients (n = 13, P = .03). No serious adverse effect was associated with erythromycin treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

High-dose oral erythromycin can be considered as a rescue measure for VLBW infants who fail to establish adequate enteral nutrition and in whom anatomically obstructive pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract have been excluded.

Erythromycin and feeding intolerance in premature infants: a randomized trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of low-dose oral erythromycin to treat feeding intolerance in preterm infants.

DESIGN

This study was a prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial on 60 premature infants suffering from feeding intolerance. Thirty infants were given oral erythromycin 1 mg/kg every 8 h and 30 infants were given placebo (normal saline). Randomization was stratified on enrollment according to gestational age whether >32 weeks or <or=32 weeks. The primary end point was the length of time taken to establish full enteral feeding since enrollment. Potential adverse effects associated with erythromycin were also monitored. Groups of each corresponding stratum were compared using two-tail t-test and Mann-Whitney for continuous variables, and chi (2) and Fisher's exact for categorical variables.

RESULTS

For infants with gestational age >32 weeks, the erythromycin group achieved full enteral feeding earlier than placebo group (10.5+/-4.1 vs 16.3+/-5.7 days, respectively; P=0.01) had fewer episodes of gastric residuals (P<0.05) and shorter duration of parenteral nutrition (PN) (P<0.05). On the other hand, in infants with gestational age <or=32 weeks, there were no significant differences between erythromycin and placebo groups regarding any of these variables.

CONCLUSION

Low-dose enteral erythromycin is associated with better tolerance of feeding and shorter duration of PN in infants >32 weeks gestation. A similar effect on younger preterm infants was not demonstrable.

Efficacy of oral erythromycin for treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm infants

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy and safety of oral erythromycin (EM) for feeding intolerance in preterm infants < 35 weeks gestation.

STUDY DESIGN

In this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, preterm infants with feeding intolerance were randomly allocated to a treatment group given EM ethyl succinate 10 mg/kg every 6 hours for 2 days, followed by 4 mg/kg every 6 hours for another 5 days, or to a control group given placebo. The primary outcome was time to full feeding (150 mL/kg/day) after the start of treatment.

RESULTS

Each group comprised 23 preterm infants, almost all of whom were < 32 weeks gestation. Baseline characteristics were similar between the 2 groups. Times to full feeding were significantly shorter and the number of withheld feeds were significantly less in the EM group than the control group; the respective medians (interquartile ranges) were 7 days (6 to 9 days) versus 13 days (9 to 15 days) (P < .001) and 1 episode (0 to 2 episodes) versus 9 episodes (2 to 13 episodes) (P < .001). No significant differences in episodes of sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, and cholestasis were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral EM was effective and safe for treatment of feeding intolerance in preterm infants.

The diagnosis and management of gastro-oesophageal reflux in infants

Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) occur frequently during the first months of life. Gastro-oesophageal reflux may be a primary gastro-intestinal motility disorder, but it may also be secondary to other conditions such as cow's milk protein allergy. Objective diagnosis can be difficult because there may be absence of correlation between history, results of pH monitoring and histology. Severe GORD may cause minor symptoms, and minor GOR may cause severe symptoms. Several different therapeutic interventions exist. Simply stated, thickened formula reduces regurgitation and alginates and proton pump inhibitors can be used to decrease acid GOR, depending on the severity of the GORD. Efficacy data of prokinetic drugs are either lacking or disappointing. Regarding side-effects, interest has been focused on cisapride, although other molecules have similar effects. Long-term side-effects such as the nutritional consequence of therapeutic management have been insufficiently studied, especially for the acid-reducing molecules.

Feeding intolerance in very-low-birthweight infants: what is it and what can we do about it?

The increased survival of very-low-birth-weight infants has resulted in the need to better understand the immaturities that challenge optimal nutrition for these infants and how to surmount them. This is critical if we are to prevent short and long term morbidity associated with poor nutrition. Here we describe several of these immaturities including those related to digestion and absorption, suck-swallow incoordination, delayed gastric emptying, and intestinal motility and how they lead to the common problem of feeding intolerance. Scientifically based strategies for introducing, stopping and continuing enteral feedings in association with parenteral nutrition are presented.

Erythromycin as a prokinetic agent in preterm neonates: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

It often takes several days or even weeks to establish full enteral feeds (FEFs) in preterm, especially extremely low birthweight neonates because of feed intolerance related to gastrointestinal hypomotility. Clinical trials of erythromycin as a prokinetic agent in preterm neonates have reported conflicting results.

AIM

To systematically review the efficacy and safety of erythromycin as a prokinetic agent in preterm neonates.

METHODS

Only randomised controlled trials in preterm neonates (gestation < or = 37 weeks) were considered eligible for inclusion. The primary outcome was the time to reach FEFs of 150 ml/kg/day. The secondary outcomes included the incidence of erythromycin related adverse effects such as diarrhoea, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. No restrictions were applied on the dose (low: 3-12 mg/kg/day; antimicrobial: > or = 12 mg/kg/6-8 hours) and route (oral or intravenous) and mode (prophylactic or rescue) of administration. The standard methodology for systematic reviews was followed. A subgroup analysis was pre-planned based on the dose and mode of drug administration.

RESULTS

Seven trials (three prophylaxis, four rescue) with various doses, routes and modes of administration, and durations of erythromycin treatment and different results were found to be eligible for inclusion in the analysis. Meta-analysis could not be performed, as specific data were either inadequate or not available.

CONCLUSION

The conflicting trial results may be explained by differences in dose and route and mode of administration of erythromycin and in gastrointestinal motor responses in the presence of different feeding conditions-for example, fasting v fed state, intermittent v continuous feeds. Gestational and postnatal ages during erythromycin treatment are also important.

Prokinetic drug therapy in children: a review of current options

OBJECTIVE

To review the pharmacology, safety, and efficacy of the prokinetic agents metoclopramide and erythromycin in children.

DATA SOURCES

English-language literature was accessed using MEDLINE (1970-June 2004) with metoclopramide, erythromycin, macrolides, gastroesophageal reflux, and gastrointestinal motility as the search terms.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

Abstracts and original research articles were included. Preference was given to published controlled trials. Articles providing descriptions of pharmacology, safety, and effectiveness of metoclopramide and erythromycin for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) were also used in this review.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Some authors advocate using a prokinetic agent along with acid suppression for treatment of GER in children. The 2 prokinetic agents most commonly used are erythromycin and metoclopramide. Erythromycin has numerous observational reports and controlled trials demonstrating its efficacy in improving feeding tolerance in children. Adverse drug reactions associated with its use were uncommon in prospective controlled trials. Few data support the use of metoclopramide for management of GER, and the potential adverse effects associated with its use need to be considered before prescribing.

CONCLUSIONS

The literature supports the use of erythromycin as a prokinetic agent. Many children with GER are adequately controlled with acid suppression alone; however, if use of a prokinetic agent is warranted, erythromycin in combination with acid suppression should be considered. Given the lack of prospective controlled studies demonstrating metoclopramide's efficacy and safety in the treatment of GER in children, metoclopramide should not be considered a treatment option.

Discerning differences: gastroesophageal reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease in infants

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a frequently encountered problem in infancy; it commonly resolves spontaneously by 12 months of age. Caregivers are challenged to discriminate between physiologic GER and the much less common and more serious condition of pathologic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Pathologic GERD may require more extensive clinical evaluation and necessitate treatment. GERD may be primary or secondary; secondary GERD is associated with a number of genetic syndromes, chromosomal abnormalities, birth defects, or a host of neurologic conditions frequently seen in the newborn intensive care unit. This article reviews the unique anatomic, physiologic, developmental, and nutritional vulnerabilities of infants that make them susceptible to GER and GERD. The North American Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition have recently developed a comprehensive evidence-based clinical practice guideline that structures the diagnostic approach and treatment option in infants with suspected and confirmed GERD. These guidelines provide clear definitions of GER and GERD to aid the clinician in distinguishing between the 2 conditions. They emphasize the use of history and physical examination and discuss the indications for the use of other diagnostic procedures, such as upper gastrointestinal studies, nuclear medicine scintiscan, esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy, and esophageal pH probe monitoring. Management of GERD begins with a nonpharmacologic approach; the emphasis is on positioning, a trial of a hypoallergenic formula, and thickening of feedings. When these measures fail to control symptoms, a trial of either histamine(2) antagonists or a proton pump inhibitor may be indicated. Finally, surgical treatment may be needed if all other management measures fail. New sleep recommendations for infants with GERD are now consistent with the American Academy of Pediatrics' standard recommendations. Prone sleep positioning is only considered in unusual cases, where the risk of death and complications from GERD outweighs the potential increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The nursing care of infants with GER and GERD, as well as relevant issues for parent education and support, are reviewed and are essential elements in managing this common condition.

A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of the prokinetic agent erythromycin in the postoperative recovery of infants with gastroschisis

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The recovery of gut function after repair of gastroschisis is frequently prolonged, and these infants are prone to complications associated with parenteral nutrition. This trial was designed to investigate the effect of the prokinetic agent, erythromycin, on the attainment of full enteral feeding in infants after primary repair of uncomplicated gastroschisis.

METHODS

A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was used to investigate the effect of enteral erythromycin (3 mg/kg/dose 4 times daily) compared with placebo on the attainment of full enteral feeding tolerance after primary repair of uncomplicated gastroschisis. Eleven neonatal surgical units in the United Kingdom participated in the study. The primary end-point was the time taken to achieve continuous enteral feeding at 150 mL/kg/24 hours sustained for 48 hours.

RESULTS

Of 70 eligible infants, 62 were recruited and randomly divided. There were 30 patients in group I (placebo) and 32 in group II (erythromycin). The groups were comparable in terms of mean gestational age, mean birth weight, extent of evisceration, and degree of intestinal peel. There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups in the time taken to achieve full enteral feeding (27.2 v 28.7 days; P =.75). Similarly, no significant differences were found in the incidence of catheter-related sepsis, duration of parenteral nutrition, or time to discharge between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Enterally administered erythromycin at a dose of 3 mg/kg 4 times daily conferred no advantage in the time taken to achieve full enteral feeding after primary repair of uncomplicated gastroschisis.

Gastroesophageal reflux: a critical review of its role in preterm infants

There is widespread concern about gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in preterm infants. This article reviews the evidence for this concern. GER is common in infants, which is related to their large fluid intake (corresponding to 14 L/day in an adult) and supine body position, resulting in the gastroesophageal junction's being constantly "under water." pH monitoring, the standard for reflux detection, is of limited use in preterm infants whose gastric pH is >4 for 90% of the time. New methods such as the multiple intraluminal impedance technique and micromanometric catheters may be promising alternatives but require careful evaluation before applying them to clinical practice. A critical review of the evidence for potential sequelae of GER in preterm infants shows that 1) apnea is unrelated to GER in most infants, 2) failure to thrive practically does not occur with GER, and 3) a relationship between GER and chronic airway problems has not yet been confirmed in preterm infants. Thus, there is currently insufficient evidence to justify the apparently widespread practice of treating GER in infants with symptoms such as recurrent apnea or regurgitation or of prolonging their hospital stay, unless there is unequivocal evidence of complications, eg, recurrent aspiration or cyanosis during vomiting. Objective criteria that help to identify those presumably few infants who do require treatment for GER disease are urgently needed.

Establishing enteral feeding in preterm infants with feeding intolerance: a randomized controlled study of low-dose erythromycin

OBJECTIVE

A prospective, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of low-dose erythromycin on the time taken to attain full enteral feedings in preterm infants with very low birth weight and feeding intolerance.

METHODS

Two groups of preterm infants (birth weight </= 1500 g) with feeding intolerance were randomized to either low-dose erythromycin (5 mg/kg every 8 hours) or 5% dextrose placebo, both of which were discontinued 1 week after full enteral feedings were tolerated. The primary outcome variable was the time taken to attain full enteral feedings of at least 130 mL/kg/d.

RESULTS

The gestational age at birth was similar in the two groups (erythromycin, 27.1 +/- 1.9 weeks; placebo, 27.5 +/- 2.9 weeks). The mean birth weight of the erythromycin group was lower (806.3 +/- 215.6 g) than the placebo group (981.4 +/- 285.4 g; P = 0.18), and included more infants who were small for gestational age (4/13 = 31% versus 1/11 = 9%; P = 0.224). There was no difference between the two groups with regard to the volume of feedings they were receiving at the time of enrollment. Reduction in symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux was similar in the two groups. 3 of 13 in the erythromycin group and 4 of 11 in the placebo group improved during the study (P = 0.565). The mean time to attain full enteral feedings after enrollment was 24.9 + 2.9 days in the erythromycin group and 30.8 +/- 4.1 days in the placebo group, a difference that did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.17).

CONCLUSIONS

Low-dose erythromycin did not reduce the time taken to attain full enteral feedings in preterm infants with very low birth weight and feeding intolerance. Gastroesophageal reflux decreased as a consequence of maturation of the gastrointestinal tract and not because of erythromycin. These preliminary results justify verification in larger multicenter trials.

Erythromycin fails to improve feeding outcome in feeding-intolerant preterm infants

OBJECTIVE

Approximately half of extremely low birth weight infants have feeding intolerance, which delays their achievement of full enteral feedings. Erythromycin, a motilin receptor agonist, triggers migrating motor complexes and accelerates gastric emptying in adults with feeding intolerance. Few studies have assessed the efficacy of this drug in preterm infants with established feeding intolerance. This study was designed to assess the efficacy of erythromycin in feeding-intolerant infants, as measured by gastric emptying, maturation of gastrointestinal motor patterns, and time to achieve full enteral feedings.

METHODS

Subjects were 27 preterm infants who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit and who did not achieve full enteral feeding volumes (150 mL/kg/day) within 8 days of the initiation of feedings. In a controlled, randomized, double-blinded clinical trial, infants received intragastric erythromycin or placebo for 8 days without crossover. At study entry, the authors recorded motor activity in the antrum and the duodenum during fasting, in response to intragastric erythromycin (1.5 mg/kg) or placebo, and in response to feeding. Gastric emptying at 20 minutes and transit time from duodenum to anus were determined. Each infant then received erythromycin or placebo for 8 days, and feeding characteristics were prospectively tracked.

RESULTS

Gastric emptying and characteristics of antroduodenal motor contractions were similar in the two groups, as were the transit times from duodenum to anus. Feeding outcomes were comparable in the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Intragastric erythromycin does not improve feeding tolerance in preterm infants with established feeding intolerance because it fails to improve gastrointestinal function in the short or long term.

The effect of low-dose erythromycin on whole gastrointestinal transit time of preterm infants

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of a low oral dose of erythromycin on whole gastrointestinal transit time [WGTT]. Erythromycin [EM] [1.5 mg/kg, 6 hourly] or placebo was given first over 7 days in a double blind randomized crossover study of 21 preterm infants with feed intolerance. Median [range] birth weight was 1420 [690, 2200] g and postconceptual age 32. 5 [20, 36.4] weeks. WGTT was assessed on day 3 of each treatment, by timing the transit of carmine red through the gut. Treatments were compared using Student's paired t test.

RESULTS

WGTT was significantly shorter following EM treatment as compared to placebo: mean [SD] 10.16 [4.6] h vs. 15. 9 [7.2] h, p<0.01.

CONCLUSION

Oral low-dose EM significantly shortens WGTT of feed-intolerant preterm infants.