Therapies are prescribed for neonates and infants with the intent that they will be beneficial, that the benefits are likely to outweigh any risks and, hopefully, that the therapies will be judged to be cost effective and provide years of quality life at an acceptable price. All agree that therapeutic decisions should follow the principles of "evidenced-based medicine" whenever possible. Briefly stated, these principles are to avoid therapies for which efficacy has not been proven and to prescribe efficacious therapies only when indicated. Consequently, risks of adverse effects are taken only when benefits are likely, and healthcare resources are used optimally.
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