What is the primary therapeutic purpose of caffeine citrate in preterm infants?

• A. To treat apnea of prematurity by stimulating the CNS, increasing respiratory drive.
• B. To promote weight gain.
• C. To prevent infection.
• D. To improve surfactant production.

Answer: (A)

Caffeine citrate is used to treat apnea of prematurity by stimulating the central nervous system and increasing respiratory drive. It works as a methylxanthine, blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, which enhances the respiratory center’s activity and reduces the frequency and duration of breathing pauses. With fewer apneic events, oxygenation stabilizes and many infants require less ventilatory support. This makes caffeine citrate the primary therapy for apnea of prematurity. It doesn’t directly promote weight gain, prevent infection, or alter surfactant production—the latter is addressed by surfactant therapy or other respiratory interventions, while nutrition and infection control cover growth and infection risk.