Medications may have an impact on nutrition via several mechanisms. Medications added to feedings can alter taste and tolerance. Some medications have direct drug-nutrient interactions and may alter absorption, utilization, or excretion. Below is a list of medications that may be used for preterm infants.
Drug Category and Name |
Nutritional Implications |
Labs to Monitor |
Diuretics |
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Chlorothiazide (potassium-depleting) |
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Furosemide (potassium-depleting) |
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Spironolactone (potassium-sparing) |
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Corticosteroids |
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Dexamethasone Prednisone or Prednisolone |
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Cardiorespiratory |
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Albuterol |
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Theophylline |
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Digoxin |
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Caffeine |
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Neurological |
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Phenobarbitol |
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Other anticonvulsants such as phenytoin sodium and valproic acid |
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Antibiotics |
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Vancomycin HCl, Gentamicin (Garamycin), Ciprofloxacin (Cipro), Doxycycline, Erythromycin |
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