Researchers note that eleven children with cerebral palsy had normal ultrasound scans and all 11 had received dexamethasone. It is already known that higher doses of steroids pose risks, but it had been assumed that lower doses might be safe. Prednisone use was associated with a doubling of the risk for hip fracture and a 2.5-fold increased risk of cataracts. Most people reading this newsletter recognize that steroids are not generally helpful for the long-term health of individuals. However, of all the problems I have come across from these drugs, this is probably the most disturbing.
Cerebral palsy is one heck of a side effect.
Developmental delay is also not insignificant. Steroids should clearly be avoided if at all possible during this time frame. If the pediatrician or neonatologist refuses, one might consider a second opinion. However, being that the steroids are being used to treat RDS, by far the best option would be to reduce the incidence of this condition and thereby reduce the need for a treatment with such potentially devastating effects. This benefit is most likely due to a greater red blood cell and increased iron levels, which increases the blood's oxygen carrying capacity.