Department of Paediatrics, Prince of Wales Hospital, 30-32 Ngan Shing Street, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
AKW So ( 蘇景桓 ) MBBS, MRCP, FHKAM(Paed)
PC Ng ( 伍百祥 ) MD, FRCPCH, FRCP(Lond)
TF Fok ( 霍泰輝 ) MD, FRCP(Edin), FHKAM(Paed)
Correspondence to: Dr AKW So
Received January 27, 2003
Gastrointestinal dysmotility is a common problem encountered in preterm infant due to immature control of the co-ordinated gastrointestinal movement. Various medications have been used to enhance the co-ordination and propulsive movement of gastrointestinal tract in preterm infants. However, evidence on the beneficial effects of these prokinetic agents is still conflicting and potential serious adverse effects had been reported. The usage of these prokinetic agents in preterm infant should therefore be cautious until further evidence on long term benefit and safety is available.