Related Experiment Videos
Treatment of apnea of prematurity with aminophylline
Insights
Aminophylline effectively treated apnea of prematurity in infants, significantly reducing apneic episodes without toxicity. Recurrence was noted after treatment cessation, suggesting a direct respiratory center effect.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Pulmonology
Background:
- Apnea of prematurity is a common challenge in neonatal care.
- Effective and safe treatment options are crucial for premature infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of aminophylline for treating apnea of prematurity.
- To assess the impact of aminophylline on respiratory parameters and clinical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 13 premature infants with apnea of prematurity.
- Administration of aminophylline via rectal suppositories (5 mg every six hours).
- Apnea monitoring through direct observation and impedance monitoring.
Main Results:
- Significant reduction in apneic episodes (P < .01) after the initial eight hours of treatment.
- No observed toxicity or complications during aminophylline therapy.
- Apnea recurrence in 9 out of 13 patients after treatment discontinuation.
Conclusions:
- Aminophylline is an effective treatment for apnea of prematurity.
- Theophylline may exert a direct effect on the respiratory center.
- Close monitoring is advised due to potential recurrence after discontinuation.
Abstract:
The effectiveness of aminophylline in the treatment of apnea of prematurity was evaluated in 13 premature infants (mean birthweight, 1.13 kg; mean gestational age, 29 weeks). Apnea was recorded by direct observation in combination with impedance monitoring. Rectal suppositories of aminophylline (5 mg) were given at six-hour intervals. The average dose was 4.1 mg/kg. No toxicity or complications were noted. The parents became free of apneic episodes during therapy. The response for each eight-hour interval of treatment over 72 hours when compared to pretreatment was significant (P less than .01; paired t-test), after the first eight hours. Only one patient required mechanical ventilation for apnea. Treatment was continued for 2 to 14 days (mean, 5 days). A recurrence of apnea was noted in nine patients after discontinuing aminophylline. All patients except one survived. No change in Po2, Pco2, pH, mean heart and respiratory rates, and blood pressure was noted. A direct effect on the respiratory center is postulated.