Current evidence for prenatal and postnatal corticosteroids in preterm infants

Eric S. Shinwell, Polina Gurevitz, Igor Portnov

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Antenatal corticosteroids undoubtedly save many lives and improve the quality of many others. However, the currently accepted dosage schedule has been in place since 1972, and recent studies have suggested that beneficial effects may be seen with less. Most but not all studies of long-term outcome show no adverse effects. The use of antenatal corticosteroids in women with COVID-19 raises important questions regarding potential risks and benefits. However, currently, most authorities recommend continuing according to published guidelines. With regard to postnatal corticosteroids, alternatives to systemic dexamethasone, the somewhat tainted standard of care, show promise in preventing bronchopulmonary dysplasia without adverse effects. Systemic hydrocortisone and inhaled corticosteroids are of note. The mixture of surfactant and corticosteroids deserves particular attention in the coming years.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)121-125
Number of pages5
JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood: Fetal and Neonatal Edition
Volume107
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Mar 2022

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 BMJ Publishing Group. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • neonatology
  • pharmacology

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