Sucrose Offers Effective Pain Relief for Newborns During Common Procedures

A 2026 systematic review confirms that sucrose is likely an effective and safe method for reducing pain in newborns undergoing procedures like venipuncture (blood draws). The review, published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, found that even small amounts of sugar can significantly alleviate discomfort during and immediately after these often-stressful experiences.

Why Pain Relief Matters for Newborns

Newborns, particularly preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), experience numerous painful procedures. Unlike older children and adults, their pain regulation systems are immature, meaning they experience pain intensely. Repeated, untreated pain can negatively impact physical growth and potentially affect brain development. Finding safe and effective pain relief methods is crucial.

How Sucrose Works

Sucrose, a simple sugar solution given orally, appears to function as a natural analgesic for newborns. The review of 29 randomized controlled trials involving over 2,700 infants showed that sucrose likely reduces pain scores during and shortly after venipuncture compared to no intervention, water, or standard care. The most noticeable pain reduction occurred within 30 seconds to 1 minute of needle insertion.

Combining Sucrose with Non-Nutritive Sucking

The research suggests that sucrose is even more effective when combined with non-nutritive sucking, such as offering a pacifier or dummy. This combination provides both a sweet taste and the comforting action of sucking, further reducing the infant’s perception of pain.

Safety and Dosage

Importantly, the review found no reported harmful side effects associated with sucrose administration, such as gagging or apnoea. However, the studies included varied significantly in sucrose dosage and method of administration. This highlights the need for clearer clinical guidelines to ensure consistent practice in neonatal pain relief.

Implications for Clinical Practice

“The evidence shows that a small amount of sucrose given just before the procedure is a simple, speedy, and effective way to reduce that pain,” says Mariana Bueno, University of Toronto, USA. The findings empower clinicians to confidently and consistently utilize this evidence-based intervention.

Key Takeaways

• Sucrose is a safe and likely effective pain relief option for newborns during venipuncture.
• Combining sucrose with non-nutritive sucking (pacifier) may enhance pain relief.
• Dosage and administration methods varied across studies, indicating a need for standardized guidelines.
• No harmful side effects were reported in the reviewed trials.

This research reinforces the importance of prioritizing pain management in neonatal care, offering a simple and accessible solution to improve the experience for vulnerable newborns.

Reference: Bueno M et al. Sucrose analgesia for venepuncture in neonates. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2026;DOI:10.1002/14651858.CD015221.pub2.