Babies that are born extremely prematurely are at higher risk of developing a serious inflammatory condition, called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), that damages parts of the intestines. It is the most common cause of illness of the intestinal tract in premature infants in the first few weeks of life. It is a very serious condition that can lead to death in up to half of affected infants.The main purpose of this study is to see if IBP-9414 ( a probiotic) can prevent NEC and if it is safe and tolerable.

IBP-9414 (Lactobacillus reuteri) is a live bacterial therapy given to infant's through a feeding tube or it is given by mouth once daily starting at or before 48 hours of life. IBP-9414 will be given daily until the infant reaches 34 weeks + 6 days Post-Menstrual Age (PMA) (the the baby's gestational age at birth plus the postnatal days of life), or until treatment is permanently discontinued if earlier.