Optimizing respiratory management in preterm infants: a review of adjuvant pharmacotherapies

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Preterm neonates face significant risks of long-term respiratory morbidities and mortality.
• Adjuvant respiratory therapies are commonly employed to mitigate these risks in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing literature on adjuvant respiratory therapies used in preterm neonates.
• To evaluate the evidence supporting current clinical practices.
• To identify therapies lacking proven clinical benefit and discuss potential adverse effects.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of published literature.
• Analysis of clinical trial data and observational studies.
• Evidence-based assessment of commonly used neonatal respiratory interventions.

Main Results:

• Evidence supports the use of certain therapies, such as caffeine, for specific respiratory indications in preterm infants.
• Some commonly used therapies lack robust clinical evidence to support their efficacy.
• Potential adverse effects of various adjuvant therapies require careful consideration.

Conclusions:

• Clinical practice regarding adjuvant respiratory therapies in preterm neonates should be guided by strong evidence.
• Therapies without proven benefits should be discontinued or used with extreme caution due to potential harm.
• Further research is needed to establish clear guidelines for effective and safe adjuvant respiratory support in neonates.