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If Your Newborn Needs a Needle, Reach for the Sugar Water: Study Finds Sweet Solution Reduces Pain

A Sweet Solution to a Painful Problem

Newborns in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) often undergo multiple painful procedures, such as blood draws or heel pricks. A recent study published in the Indian Journal of Neonatal Medicine and Research (IJNMR) has found that a simple and sweet solution, 25% dextrose (sugar water), is more effective in reducing procedural pain in these infants than breast milk.

Study Design and Findings

The randomized placebo-controlled study, conducted at Bokaro General Hospital in India, involved 157 neonates over 34 weeks gestation. Infants were randomly assigned to receive either 2 mL of 25% dextrose, 5 mL of expressed breast milk (EBM), or 2mL of sterile water (placebo) two minutes before a venipuncture.

Researchers assessed pain levels using the Premature Infant Pain Profile (PIPP), a validated tool that measures facial expressions, crying, heart rate, and oxygen saturation. Results showed that the 25% dextrose group experienced significantly lower PIPP scores and shorter crying times compared to the EBM and placebo groups. Additionally, their physiological markers, such as heart rate and oxygen saturation, returned to normal levels faster than those in the other groups.

Why Sugar Water Works

The analgesic effect of sugar water in infants is believed to be due to its sweet taste, which activates pain-inhibiting pathways in the brain and triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.

Implications for Neonatal Care

This study provides valuable evidence for using 25% dextrose as a safe and effective pain relief option for neonates undergoing painful procedures. It is particularly relevant in NICU settings, where minimizing pain and stress is crucial for the well-being and development of these vulnerable infants.

Important Considerations

While the study highlights the superior efficacy of 25% dextrose over breast milk in pain reduction, it is essential to note that breast milk still offered some pain relief compared to the placebo. This suggests that breast milk may still be considered an option when 25% dextrose is unavailable or unsuitable.

Additionally, the study did not assess the long-term effects of these interventions. Further research is needed to evaluate the potential benefits and risks of using sugar water for pain relief in newborns over extended periods.

Key Takeaway for Parents