Beractant: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More

Beractant is a life-saving medication used in neonatal care to treat or prevent respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in premature infants. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of its uses, dosage, side effects, interactions, and benefits.

What is Beractant?

Beractant is a surfactant replacement therapy derived from bovine (cow) lung extract. It helps restore the natural surfactant in the lungs, reducing surface tension and preventing alveolar collapse. Beractant is critical for improving lung function and oxygenation in preterm infants.

Uses of Beractant

1. Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) Treatment:

• Used to treat premature infants with RDS due to surfactant deficiency.

2. RDS Prevention:

• Administered prophylactically in preterm infants at high risk of developing RDS.

3. Improved Oxygenation:

• Enhances gas exchange and lung compliance in neonates with respiratory failure.

Dosage of Beractant

Administration:

• Beractant is administered intratracheally (directly into the windpipe) by a trained healthcare provider in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

For RDS Treatment:

• Initial dose: 4 mL/kg of birth weight, delivered in up to four aliquots.
• Repeat doses (if needed): Up to 3 additional doses may be given at 6-hour intervals based on clinical response and oxygen requirements.

For RDS Prevention:

• Administered as soon as possible after birth, preferably within 15 minutes.

Technique:

1. The infant is intubated, and Beractant is delivered via a catheter or endotracheal tube.

2. The dose is divided into aliquots, with the infant repositioned between each to ensure even lung distribution.

Note: The dosage and frequency depend on the infant’s weight and clinical condition.

Side Effects of Beractant

While Beractant is generally safe when used appropriately, some side effects may occur.

Common Side Effects:

• Transient oxygen desaturation (temporary drop in oxygen levels).
• Bradycardia (slow heart rate).
• Hypotension (low blood pressure).

Severe Side Effects:

• Pulmonary hemorrhage (bleeding in the lungs).
• Blocked airway due to mucus plugs or improper surfactant distribution.
• Increased need for mechanical ventilation.

Precautions:

• Close monitoring of oxygenation, heart rate, and blood pressure is essential during administration.
• Ensure proper intubation and ventilation techniques to minimize complications.

Interaction with Other Medicines

Beractant is typically administered in critical care settings, so interactions with other medications are managed by healthcare professionals.

1. Concurrent Respiratory Support:

• Beractant is used alongside mechanical ventilation or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

2. Medications for Neonates:

• Interactions with other neonatal medications (e.g., antibiotics, diuretics) are unlikely to affect Beractant efficacy.

3. Steroids:

• Maternal corticosteroid use before birth may reduce the need for Beractant but does not interact directly.

Benefits of Beractant

1. Life-Saving for Premature Infants:

• Reduces mortality and complications associated with RDS.

2. Improves Lung Function:

• Restores normal lung compliance and enhances oxygen exchange.

3. Prevents Long-Term Complications:

• Reduces the risk of chronic lung disease and other respiratory issues in preterm infants.

4. Rapid Onset of Action:

• Improves oxygenation and ventilation shortly after administration.

5. Proven Safety:

• Widely studied and used for decades in neonatal care with a well-established safety profile.

FAQs About Beractant

1. What is Beractant used for?

Beractant is used to treat or prevent respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in premature infants.

2. How does Beractant work?

It replaces missing or insufficient surfactant in the lungs, reducing surface tension and preventing alveolar collapse.

3. When is Beractant administered?

It is given shortly after birth in preterm infants at risk of RDS or after symptoms of RDS develop.

4. What are the common side effects of Beractant?

Common side effects include transient oxygen desaturation, bradycardia, and low blood pressure.

5. Can Beractant be used in full-term infants?

It is typically used for preterm infants but may be considered in full-term infants with severe respiratory conditions.

6. Is Beractant safe?

Yes, when administered by trained healthcare professionals, Beractant is considered safe and effective.

7. How is Beractant administered?

It is delivered directly into the lungs via an endotracheal tube in a NICU setting.

8. How quickly does Beractant work?

Improvement in oxygenation and ventilation is often seen within minutes of administration.

9. Can Beractant be repeated?

Yes, up to 3 additional doses may be given at 6-hour intervals if clinically indicated.

10. What happens if Beractant is not available?

Other surfactant replacement therapies, such as poractant alfa or calfactant, may be used as alternatives.

Brand Names of Beractant

• Survanta®

Conclusion

Beractant is a critical medication in neonatal care, providing life-saving treatment for premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome. Its ability to restore lung function and reduce complications has made it a cornerstone of modern neonatal medicine. Proper administration by skilled healthcare professionals ensures its effectiveness and safety.