Caffeine decreases intermittent hypoxia in preterm infants nearing term-equivalent age

To determine whether intermittent hypoxia (IH) persisting after 36 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA) can be attenuated using caffeine doses sufficient to maintain caffeine concentrations >20 μg ml−1. Twenty-seven infants born 20 μg ml−1 on study caffeine doses. IH was significantly attenuated through 38 weeks PMA compared with the control group. Caffeine doses of 14 to 20 mg kg−1 day−1 were sufficient to maintain caffeine concentrations >20 μg ml−1 and reduce IH in preterm infants at 36 to 38 weeks PMA.