Chronic Midazolam Exposure on Neonates and Long-Term Neurodevelopment

About 1 in 10 U.S. newborns are born preterm and often require sedation, which may pose long-term neurodevelopmental risks. This study examined the effects of chronic exposure to midazolam (MDZ), a sedative commonly used in NICUs, using a rodent model. Researchers assessed physical, molecular, biochemical, and behavioral outcomes across development. Results showed that early MDZ exposure led to early childhood growth issues, abnormal weight gain patterns in adulthood (suggesting a risk of binge eating), reduced dopamine release, increased brain inflammation markers, and signs of anxiety and social deficits in adolescence. The study highlights potential long-term impacts of neonatal MDZ use on brain and behavior.