Effect of oral zinc supplementation on the growth of preterm infants.

OBJECTIVE To compare the effect of oral zinc supplementation on growth of preterm infants. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTING Dhaka Shisu Hospital (Tertiary care hospital). SUBJECTS 100 appropriate for date preterm infants weighing between 1000 to 2500 g were randomized to receive zinc and multivitamin supplement (Group I; n=50) or only multivitamin supplement (Group II). INTERVENTION Zinc supplementation was given 2mg/kg/day for 6 weeks along with multivitamin in Group I and only multivitamin to Group II. PRIMARY OUTCOME VARIABLE Increment of weight and length. RESULTS At enrollment, serum zinc (62.1 ± 12.4 ug/dL in Group I and 63.1 ± 14.6 ug/dL in Group II) and hemoglobin levels (14.9 ± 2.4 g/dL in Group I and 14.4 ± 1.7 g/dL in Group II) were almost similar in both groups. Serum zinc levels were in lower limit of normal range. After supplementation, serum zinc and hemoglobin levels were significantly higher in Group I (105 ± 16.5 ug/dL) than Group II (82.2 ± 17.4 ug/dL) (P<0.05). Weight, length and head circumference were comparable in both groups at enrollment. Significant differences in weight gain and increment in length were found in first and second follow up between two groups but OFC increments were not significant (P>0.05). Reduction of morbidity was apparent in zinc supplemented group. No serious adverse effect was noted related to supplementation therapy. CONCLUSION Zinc supplementation for preterm low birth weight babies is found effective to enhance the growth in early months of life.