Infants that are born prematurely are able to be kept alive at younger and younger ages. Physicians report that many infants that are born at 28 weeks are able to survive, and about 50 percent of those born at 24 weeks survive. One of the means that helps with this rate of survival among premature infants is the use of antibiotic drugs. These drugs are used to ward off serious infections that are known to cause sepsis.
In many neo-natal instensive care units, premature infants are given powerful antibiotics as a matter of course. Often, tests are not performed to see if the infant has an active infection. The antibiotics are prescribed as a preventative measure.
Doctors are now questioning whether or not this is an appropriate practice for all premature infants. Studies are beginning to demonstrate that the use of antibiotics in premature infants can lead to significant health concerns later in life.
Researchers believe that one consequence of the overuse of antibiotics in premature infants is the fact that these infants are not able to establish a sufficient supply of gut microbes. These microbes help to synthesize nutrients, and they aid in the development of the infant’s immune system.
Research is also pointing to the fact that premature infants who receive antibiotics have a higher tendency of developing antibiotic resistant infections when they become older. Premature infants who receive antibiotics are also at risk of developing asthma at a higher rate, and obesity is also a growing concern.
Scientists are now asking doctors to carefully consider the frequency and dosage of antibiotics given if they are given at all. It is suggested that antibiotics only be given to premature infants if they test positive for some type of bacteria that an antibiotic is useful in controlling or eradicating.
Since so many doctors are set in their way of doing things, it may take a few years before changes are seen. Researchers know that antibiotics are being overused, this is just one way.
