I know you are very worried about your little one's health these days, as he was born prematurely or with a low birth weight. In particular, such babies are more likely to have breathing difficulties. The main reason for this is that their lungs are not yet fully developed for birth. So, today we are talking about a very important medicine that doctors use at times like these, which can save the baby's life.
What is this Calfactant?
Simply put, 'lung surfactant' is a natural liquid substance that helps keep the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in our lungs open and not stick together when we breathe. Think of it like when you inflate a ball of soap, the air inside keeps the ball from collapsing.
Babies born prematurely have very little surfactant in their bodies, making it difficult for them to keep their lungs open while breathing. Calfactant (often known by the brand name Infasurf ) is a surfactant that is artificially formulated and administered directly to the baby's lungs to help compensate for this deficiency.
This medicine is used to treat and prevent a condition called Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), which occurs in premature babies.
How do you give this medicine to a baby?
This is not a syrup or pill that can be used at home. It must only be given in a hospital, especially in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) , by a doctor or specialist nursing staff who has received special training in this.
This fluid is delivered directly into the lungs through a small tube (endotracheal tube) that is placed in the baby's mouth to help him breathe. During and after this, the doctor and nursing staff will monitor the baby very closely. The baby's heart rate and oxygen levels are continuously monitored with the help of machines.
Important things to inform the medical team
Before administering this medication, the medical team will carefully review the baby's and mother's complete medical history. However, if there is anything special that you, as a parent, know, it is very important to inform the doctor.
- Allergies: Tell your baby or family member if they have any allergies to any medications, foods, or dyes. In particular, Calfactant is made from a substance extracted from the lungs of calves, so it is important to let them know if they have any allergic reactions to beef products.
- Other medications: Inform the doctor about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements the mother took during pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding: If the mother is breastfeeding, it is important to inform the doctor about this as well.
What are the expected side effects?
Since the baby is closely monitored while receiving this medication, the medical team is prepared to quickly identify and manage any side effects. However, it's good to be aware of this as a parent.
| Type of side effect | Description and what you need to do |
|---|---|
| If you notice these symptoms, tell your doctor or nurse immediately. | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Blue skin (Cyanosis) | The baby's skin, lips, or fingernails turn blue (this means the body is not getting enough oxygen). |
| Breathing changes | Rapid, difficult breathing, or momentary cessation of breathing. |
| Changes in blood pressure | Sudden rise or fall in blood pressure. |
| Signs of infection | Showing symptoms of an infectious condition such as fever. |
| Abnormal bleeding | Unusual bleeding from the breathing tube or elsewhere. |
| If these persist or become bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Decreased heart rate | Your heart rate may slow slightly while the medication is being given. The medical team is constantly monitoring this. |
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, sometimes it can. In particular, there are problems with some inhaled antibiotics that are given to the lungs. But you don't need to worry about this. The hospital's medical team is aware of every medicine given to the baby, so they take the necessary precautions. All medicines given to the baby are given under their strict supervision.
What to do if the medication dose is increased?
This is administered in the hospital by trained medical professionals, who calculate the dose very accurately to suit the baby's weight and condition, so the risk of overdose is very low. If this happens, they will immediately take action to provide the necessary treatment.
If you need any urgent information regarding any medicine or poisoning, you can call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . They will provide you with the necessary advice at any time.
Take-Home Message
- Calfactant is a life-saving, special medicine that helps keep the underdeveloped lungs of premature babies functioning properly.
- This medicine is only given in a hospital by a specially trained medical team. This is not a medicine to be taken home or given by parents.
- The baby will be monitored closely during and after the medication is given. If you notice anything like bluish skin or a change in breathing, notify the medical team immediately.
- If you have any questions about this medicine or your baby's condition, never be afraid to ask the doctor or nursing staff treating your baby. They will explain everything to you.
- Rest assured that this treatment will greatly help improve your baby's health.
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