Ototoxic Medication in Premature Children

Abstract
Thirty-five deaf children born prematurely and treated in premature nurseries were studied. Thirty had no observable auditory response, and 5 had marked reduction in hearing. Twenty -six had absent, 8 markedly reduced, and 1 normal vestibular function. Dihydrostreptomycin was administered in excess of the standard recommended daily dose /pound of body weight in 29 of these children. Other factors are discussed, but it appears that dihydrostreptomycin, at least when given in overdosage, has a profound toxic effect on cochleovestibular function in premature children. Audition and body posture control are severely and probably permanently inpaired.

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