A systematic review of the efficacy of antibiotics switch therapy in neonates

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Aim: The Switch from intravenous antibiotic treatment to oral antibiotic therapy for neonates is not currently
common in high-income regions, primarily due to concerns regarding safety and adequate exposure. The objective
of this systematic review is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of early transitioning from intravenous to oral
antibiotics in neonates with suspected bacterial infections, as compared to a complete course of intravenous
antibiotics. Material and Methods: A search was carried out using different terms i.e. switch therapy, antibiotics in
neonates, iv to oral switch to find the related articles. A total of 9 studies were used that described antibiotic switch
therapy in neonates. Results: The findings from selected studies indicated that transitioning to antibiotic switch
therapy had a notable impact on decreasing the length of hospital stays and the recurrence of infections in neonates.
Discussion: Oral switch therapy is not a widespread practice in neonates yet. Antibiotic therapy is started
immediately in case of maternal factors-based or clinical symptoms-based suspicion of infection. Antibiotic therapy
can be stopped 36-48 hours after the disappearance of symptoms, reassurance of inflammatory parameters, and
negative cultures in the best-case scenario.
Keywords: intravenous, neonates, effectiveness, bacterial infection