Indications
Phospholipids (Alveofact) is indicated for the prevention and treatment of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), also known as hyaline membrane disease, in premature infants. For prevention, in premature infants under 1250 g birthweight, or with evidence of surfactant deficiency, give it as soon as possible, preferably within 15 minutes of birth. For rescue, in infants with RDS confirmed by X-ray who need mechanical ventilation, give it as soon as possible, preferably by 8 hours of age. Results from clinical studies suggest that little benefit is likely when infants have completed a prenatal course of corticosteroids, unless they develop RDS within the first 6 to 8 hours of life. The results for outborn and inborn infants were not analysed separately in the clinical trials. Outborn infants were distributed equally between the treatment groups and were not considered likely to bias the estimation of treatment effect. So there does not appear to be any evidence that outborn infants respond less well to treatment with the medicine.
⚠️ Always consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.
Pharmacology
Pulmonary surfactant is made naturally in the body. It lowers surface tension on the surfaces of the alveoli while a person breathes, and it keeps the alveoli from collapsing at resting transpulmonary pressures. Premature infants who lack enough surfactant develop Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS). Phospholipids replace the missing surfactant and bring back surface activity in the lungs of these infants.
In vitro, Phospholipids lowered minimum surface tension to less than 8 dynes/cm every time they were tested, on both the pulsating bubble surfactometer and the Wilhelmy Surface Balance. In vivo, single doses of Phospholipids improved lung pressure-volume measurements, lung compliance and oxygenation in premature rabbits and sheep.
Dosage Reference
⚠️ Reference ranges from official sources only. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.