New research suggests there could be a link between giving babies anti-biotics in their first year of life and an increased risk of developing asthma. There is no doubt that the discovery of anti-biotics revolutionized medicine and the way we live. But we’ve had an uneasy relationship with the miracle cure in the last decade or so. Over use has led to the creation of super-bugs. It is always a question of balance and now it seems we have another very good reason to be cautious before demanding physicians prescribe anti-biotics for our little ones.
A Canadian study in Pediatrics, led by Dr Fawziah in 2009, finds that antibiotic use in the first year of life is associated with increased risk of developing asthma. A baby who received anti-biotics in their first year had a 12% increase in the risk of developing asthma. The risk was greatest in those babies receiving four or more courses of anti-biotics in the first year with an increased risk of up to 30%. The research was not able to conclude whether certain types of anti-biotics posed a greater risk than others.
As a mom, I know how hard it is to cope with sick kids and nothing is worse than the feeling that you are not doing enough for them. No doubt it is this feeling of helplessness that often provokes parents to press doctors for anti-biotic medication. Sure, we need reassurance, but often our babies don’t need anti-biotics. What are your thoughts on this?
(see orignal article at About.com)
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Eeehh, sounds scary. I think when you breastfeed, baby is already getting enough antibodies to not need antibiotics. I’m definitely against giving anything during the first year.
Also, be aware, that doctors get paid for pushing new medicines, whether it’s antibiotics or other. That’s one of the reasons I switched my pediatrician. She kept prescribing some very expensive medicines for simple things like an ear infection. When I asked her about it, she said that she feels it’s the best medicine for the time being. When I went to another doctor, he didn’t have a problem prescribing a generic brand.
Yep I think you’re spot on there Malika, and thanks for bringing up the issue of doctors pushing medicines – we do really have to be aware of that.