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Italian Journal of Pediatrics
Published in: Italian Journal of Pediatrics 1/2021

Open Access 01-12-2021 | Chickenpox | Review

Serious infectious events and ibuprofen administration in pediatrics: a narrative review in the era of COVID-19 pandemic

Authors: Lucia Quaglietta, Massimo Martinelli, Annamaria Staiano

Published in: Italian Journal of Pediatrics | Issue 1/2021

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Abstract

Purpose of review

Despite its recognized efficacy and tolerability profile, during the last decade a rise of adverse events following ibuprofen administration in children has been reported, including a possible role in worsening the clinical course of infections. Our aim was to critically evaluate the safety of ibuprofen during the course of pediatric infectious disease in order to promote its appropriate use in children.

Recent findings

Ibuprofen is associated with severe necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI) during chickenpox course. Pre-hospital use of ibuprofen seems to increase the risk of complicated pneumonia in children. Conflicting data have been published in septic children, while ibuprofen in the setting of Cystic Fibrosis (CF) exacerbations is safe and efficacious. No data is yet available for ibuprofen use during COVID-19 course.

Summary

Ibuprofen should not be recommended for chickenpox management. Due to possible higher risks of complicated pneumonia, we suggest caution on its use in children with respiratory symptoms. While it remains unclear whether ibuprofen may have harmful effects during systemic bacterial infection, its administration is recommended in CF course. Despite the lack of data, it is seems cautious to prefer the use of paracetamol during COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome in children.
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Metadata
Title
Serious infectious events and ibuprofen administration in pediatrics: a narrative review in the era of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors
Lucia Quaglietta
Massimo Martinelli
Annamaria Staiano
Publication date
01-12-2021

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