Publication:

Efficacy of 25% dextrose gel in reducing procedural pain in preterm infants: a prospective observational study

Background Preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) undergo frequent painful procedures, increasing their risk for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Non-pharmacologic interventions are sought for safe, effective pain management. We evaluated the efficacy of 25% dextrose gel (Nanodex, Analeptik Biologicals) for procedural pain relief in preterm neonates.

Methods This prospective observational study enrolled 53 preterm infants over 12 months. 25% dextrose gel (Nanodex, Analeptik Biologicals) was administered buccally at 0.5 ml/kg, 2 minutes before procedures including venepuncture, intubation, heel prick, nasogastric/orogastric tube insertions, and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening. Historical data was used as control group. Pain was assessed using the premature infant pain profile (PIPP) score.

Results The mean PIPP score across all procedures was significantly lower post-25% dextrose gel (mean: 6.9±1.9) compared to historical reference scores (mean: 11.2±2.1, p<0.001). The greatest reduction was observed during ROP screening. No adverse events were recorded.

Conclusions 25% dextrose gel is a safe and effective intervention for procedural pain management in preterm infants. Its routine use in NICU protocols should be considered.