Effect of domperidone on the QTc interval in premature infants

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of domperidone use on corrected QT interval in premature infants. STUDY DESIGN: A prospective study of premature infants receiving domperidone was included in this study. A baseline electrocardiogram was obtained just before and 3, 7 and 14 days after initiation of domperidone. Corrected QT was considered prolonged if it exceeded the upper limit for age. RESULT: A total of 40 premature infants were enrolled in this study. The mean birth weight of 1109+/-332 g, mean gestational age of 28.8+/-2.4 years and mean age at the onset of domperidone were 32.8+/-2 days. No difference in corrected QT interval was observed between just before and 3, 7 and 14 days after the start of the treatment. Two infants had corrected QT interval prolongation without any clinical side effect that resolved spontaneously. CONCLUSION: Our experience suggests that domperidone administered cautiously in modest doses does not result in arrhythmias or conduction defects in premature infants statistically. Additional data are needed to give optimal advice regarding the safety of domperidone treatment in premature infants.