Interaction of caffeine and continuous distending airway pressure in neonatal apnea

The interactive effect of caffeine and continuous distending airway pressure was evaluated in two premature neonates with apnea. The application of a continuous negative pressure around the chest wall decreased minute ventilation in both infants and blunted the stimulatory effect of caffeine. This potential interaction should be considered if the desired effects of caffeine or distending airway pressure on apnea control are not achieved when they are used concurrently.