Adverse Neonatal Outcomes With Shortened Dexamethasone Clinical Regimen

Freddie Fernando Miranda Ramirez, Carlos Uvencer Mata Hernandez, Ricardo Arturo Gutierrez-Ramirez

Abstract

Background: Prematurity is a major contributor to neonatal mortality, with respiratory distress syndrome being one of the leading causes of early neonatal death in preterm infants. Antenatal corticosteroids, like dexamethasone, improve fetal lung maturation; however, optimal dosing regimens remain understudied.

Aim: To compare neonatal and maternal outcomes of 2 dexamethasone regimens used for fetal lung maturation in preterm labor at Hospital Escuela, Honduras

Materials and Methods: This randomized, noninferiority, single-blind trial enrolled patients at risk of preterm delivery. Participants were assigned to receive 2 different dexamethasone regimens (with the same total dose). Baseline maternal, obstetric, and neonatal characteristics were subsequently analyzed.

Results: The groups had similar demographics, obstetric history, and neonatal outcomes (P > .05). No significant differences in neonatal morbidity/mortality were observed. However, the intervention group had lower diastolic blood pressure (P = .006) and reported higher treatment satisfaction (P = .0078), suggesting better adherence to the daily 12 mg intramuscular regimen.

Conclusion: The 2 dexamethasone regimens yielded comparable neonatal outcomes, while the daily regimen improved patient adherence and satisfaction.