This Week in Pediatrics
FDA news in pediatrics: May 2026 | Contemporary Pediatrics
On May 29, 2026, the FDA approved Afrezza for children and adolescents aged 6 years and older with diabetes, making it the first rapid-acting inhaled insulin available for pediatric patients requiring mealtime insulin.
Pediatrics - Medscape
For Farmers, Mental Health Care That Fits · Medscape News Canada May 27, 2026 · What Your ZIP Code Is Costing You · Medscape Medical News May 26, 2026 View All · Centers for Disease Control and Prevention · Children's Hospital of Philadelphia · Children's National Healt...
Contemporary Pediatrics – Clinical News & Pediatrician Practice Tips
The FDA extended its review of adrabetadex for infantile-onset Niemann-Pick disease type C to November 17, 2026, after a major NDA amendment. ... UCLA researchers identified EPAC2 as a potential Fragile X syndrome treatment target after improving ...
Research of the Day
Social Media Use and Depression in Early Adolescence: Longitudinal Analysis
This 3-year longitudinal study followed 6,500 adolescents ages 12-15, tracking social media use patterns and mental health outcomes. High social media use (>3 hours/day) was associated with increased depression risk, though the relationship was bidirectional.
Key findings: (1) 35% increased odds of elevated depressive symptoms with high use; (2) Social comparison and cyberbullying mediated the relationship; (3) Active use (creating content) showed smaller associations than passive consumption.
Screen for problematic social media use during well visits. Counsel families on media limits, encourage active over passive use, and discuss warning signs of cyberbullying and unhealthy comparison.
Popular Beliefs
Starve a fever, feed a cold
What the evidence shows: Neither fevers nor colds benefit from restricting food. Both conditions increase metabolic demands, and adequate nutrition supports immune function. Encourage normal eating as tolerated and emphasize hydration with any illness.
Wait 30 minutes after eating before swimming
What the evidence shows: There's no evidence that swimming after eating causes cramps or drowning. While digestion diverts some blood flow to the gut, it doesn't impair swimming ability in normal circumstances. Common-sense supervision is always important regardless of meal timing.
Warm milk helps children sleep
What the evidence shows: While milk contains tryptophan (a sleep-promoting amino acid), the amount is modest. Any sleep benefit likely comes from the comforting ritual and warmth rather than pharmacologic effect. A consistent bedtime routine matters more than any single component.
Behaviors
Bedtime Routine Consistency and Child Behavior: Observational Study
This analysis of 5,000 parent surveys examined the relationship between bedtime routine consistency and daytime behavior. Children with consistent, calming bedtime routines had fewer behavioral problems and better emotional regulation.
Key findings: (1) Inconsistent routines associated with 2x behavioral difficulties; (2) Routines including reading showed strongest effects; (3) Benefits seen across all age groups studied (2-10 years).
Bedtime routines matter for more than just sleep—they shape behavior and emotional regulation. Help families develop simple, consistent routines even during busy periods.
Genetics
Gene Therapy for Congenital Hearing Loss: Breakthrough Trial
First successful gene therapy trial for DFNB9 deafness (otoferlin deficiency) shows restoration of hearing in children with previously profound hearing loss. Treated children gained ability to hear speech without cochlear implants.
Key findings: (1) 8 of 10 children gained functional hearing; (2) Benefit sustained at 18-month follow-up; (3) Earlier treatment showed better outcomes.
Genetic forms of deafness may become treatable. This changes the conversation with families about hearing loss prognosis. Genetic testing for hearing loss is increasingly important for treatment planning.