Presentation Information

Starbucks for Babies? Caffeine Use in Neonates

• Speaker: Jennifer Barnes , PharmD
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 Nursing CEU, 1 CME

Abstract:

Caffeine is one of the most prescribed medications within the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This presentation will summarize the current understanding of caffeine therapy in neonates including the various indications. Caffeine is the medication of choice for apnea of prematurity (AOP) however it has been shown to be beneficial in several other disease states and conditions. Despite the widespread use of caffeine, there is not consensus on optimal dosing regimen or timing. We will review the supporting literature for the nuances of caffeine dosing regimens and schedules. While caffeine is generally considered a safe medication, we will also discuss potential side effects for monitoring. After this presentation, the audience will have a full picture of the pros and cons of this ubiquitous medication in our NICU population.