Background: Neonatal hypoglycaemia is common, and a preventable cause of brain damage. Dextrose gel is used to reverse hypoglycaemia in individuals with diabetes; however, little evidence exists for its use in babies. We aimed to assess whether treatment with dextrose gel was more effective than feeding alone for reversal of neonatal hypoglycaemia in at-risk babies.
Methods: We undertook a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial at a tertiary centre in New Zealand between Dec 1, , and Nov 31, Randomisation was stratified by maternal diabetes and birthweight. Group allocation was concealed from clinicians, families, and all study investigators. Analysis was by intention to treat. We noted no serious adverse events. No other adverse events took place. Interpretation: Treatment with dextrose gel is inexpensive and simple to administer.
Dextrose gel should be considered for first-line treatment to manage hypoglycaemia in late preterm and term babies in the first 48 h after birth. Abstract Background: Neonatal hypoglycaemia is common, and a preventable cause of brain damage.
