A few drops of sugar solution can significantly ease pain for babies undergoing hospital procedures, according to a new Cochrane review. Infants, particularly those in intensive care, frequently experience painful procedures like blood tests and vaccinations. Their pain regulation systems are still developing, making them more sensitive than adults.
The review analyzed 29 trials involving 2,764 babies globally. It found that sucrose administered before needle injections reduced pain during and immediately after the procedure. The effectiveness of sugar solution appeared superior to pacifiers.
Ligyana Candido, co-author from the University of Ottawa, noted that this simple intervention makes a tangible difference in infant comfort. The study highlighted that while evidence comparing sucrose to breastfeeding or skin-to-skin contact is still limited, it offers a rapid, low-cost solution.
Lead author Mariana Bueno from the University of Toronto emphasized that infants often undergo frequent needle procedures without pain relief, unlike older children and adults. This readily available, effective intervention works within minutes and is especially valuable when other comforting methods are unavailable. The review stresses the need for infants to receive pain management before procedures such as venipuncture.