 This fact sheet is available for download as a printable PDF in: English
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What is sucrose?
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Sucrose is sugar. In this case though, we are referring to a sucrose solution which is specially made up for newborn babies.
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Why do you use sucrose?
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Giving newborn babies sucrose by mouth, together with sucking and being held or contained, has been found to be a safe way to reduce or minimise discomfort from brief painful events such as a heel prick. The effect lasts only a few minutes.
If you have given permission for your baby to have a dummy he or she will be given it at the same time as the sucrose solution.
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How do I know the solution is safe?
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The sucrose solution is prepared by the hospital pharmacy to be used only in a hospital. Small doses of sucrose are placed in your baby’s mouth using a syringe, starting two minutes before the procedure. Up to four small doses of sucrose can be given for each painful event and there is a maximum amount your baby can receive in any 24 hours, dependent on your baby’s weight.
There is no evidence that sucrose given to babies for pain reduction in hospital affects future teeth development or conditions babies to sweeteners.
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For more information
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If you would like any other information about sucrose, please ask one of the nurses or doctors.
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The Royal Women’s Hospital
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Newborn Intensive & Special Care
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Cnr Flemington Rd and Grattan St
Parkville VIC 3052
Phone: (03) 8345 3400
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Disclaimer
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The Royal Women’s Hospital does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided in this fact sheet or incorporated into it by reference. We provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.
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Published January 2010
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