Donating Dantrolene: Development and Implementation of a Malignant Hyperthermia Program in a Scarce Resource Setting.

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pharmacology
• Global Health

Background:

• Intravenous dantrolene is the primary treatment for malignant hyperthermia (MH).
• Dantrolene accessibility is limited in lower-middle income countries (LMICs).
• US facilities are transitioning to Ryanodex, creating potential for dantrolene redistribution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the lack of MH treatment resources in LMICs.
• To establish an accessible malignant hyperthermia (MH) treatment protocol and supply chain.
• To leverage surplus dantrolene for LMIC healthcare facilities.

Main Methods:

• Procurement of 36 vials of recently expired, unused dantrolene.
• Development of a comprehensive MH program in collaboration with Lao Friends Hospital for Children (LFHC).
• Creation of facility-specific protocols, treatment guidelines, supply lists, and educational materials.

Main Results:

• LFHC received dantrolene, addressing a critical treatment gap.
• An MH program, including protocols and educational tools, was successfully implemented.
• A dedicated MH treatment drawer was established for immediate response.

Conclusions:

• LFHC is now better equipped to manage malignant hyperthermia (MH) events.
• The initiative demonstrates a viable model for improving MH preparedness in resource-limited settings.
• Collaboration and resource redistribution are key to enhancing global MH management.