Morphine, Hypotension, and Adverse Outcomes Among Preterm Neonates: Who’s to Blame? Secondary Results From the NEOPAIN Trial

Abstract

Preemptive morphine infusions, additional morphine, and lower gestational age were associated with hypotension among preterm neonates. Severe IVH, any IVH, and death were associated with preexisting hypotension, but morphine therapy did not contribute to these outcomes. Morphine infusions, although they cause hypotension, can be used safely for most preterm neonates but should be used cautiously for 23- to 26-week neonates and those with preexisting hypotension.