Randomised controlled trial of sucrose by mouth for the relief of infant crying after immunisation

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of sucrose solution given by mouth on infant crying times and measures of distress in the immunisation clinic.

Design: Randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial of sucrose solution 75% wt/vol v sterile water as a control.

Setting: The immunisation clinic of the Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide.

Patients: A total of 107 healthy infants attending for 2, 4, or 6 month immunisations with polio by mouth (Sabin), intramuscular diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP), and intramuscular Haemophilus influenzae type b were randomised to receive 2 ml 75% sucrose solution or sterile water by mouth before the two injections.

Methods: The duration of infant crying was recorded during and immediately after two intramuscular immunisations and infant distress was assessed by a visual analogue scale (Oucher scores) independently by a nurse and a parent.

Results: The administration of 2 ml 75% sucrose solution by mouth reduced the infant crying time and Oucher distress scores after immunisation with DTP/H influenzae type b.

Conclusions: Infant immunisation by intramuscular injection is a distressing procedure for infants and parents. Sucrose solution at a high concentration reduces infant distress and is safe and clinically useful in this setting.