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Treating Hypotension in Preterm Neonates With Vasoactive Medications
Chloe Joynt1, Po-Yin Cheung1,2,3
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
Frontiers in Pediatrics
|May 1, 2018
Summary
Hypotension is common in preterm neonates. This review examines vasoactive medications like dopamine and epinephrine, detailing their effects and side effects in neonates.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Preterm neonates frequently experience hypotension from various causes.
- Defining hypotension in this population remains controversial.
- Vasoactive medications are crucial for cardiovascular support in neonates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pharmacologic actions of commonly used antihypotensive medications in preterm neonates.
- To summarize the clinical effects and side effects of these drugs.
- To highlight gaps in the literature regarding hemodynamic effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of published reports and meta-analytic reviews.
- Inclusion of selected abstracts on neonatal hypotension.
- Synthesis of information on specific vasoactive agents.
Main Results:
- Dopamine, dobutamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, vasopressin, and milrinone are commonly used.
- Information on systemic and regional hemodynamic effects is limited.
- Data on clinical effects and side effects in preterm neonates is incomplete.
Conclusions:
- Existing literature on antihypotensive medications in preterm neonates is insufficient.
- Cautious interpretation of findings from other populations and animal studies is necessary.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the hemodynamic impacts of these drugs.
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