Hydrocortisone therapy in meconium aspiration syndrome: a controlled study.

Abstract

To evaluate the efficacy of glucocorticoids in the treatment of infants with meconium aspiration syndrome, a double-blind study using hydrocortisone or a lactose placebo was undertaken. Thirty-five infants were included in the study. No significant differences in arterial Po2, Pco2, pH, A-aDo2 gradients, in requirement for assisted ventilation, or in survival were domonstrated between the groups. In control infants, a significant decrease (p less than 0.01) in respiratory distress score was found at 48 to 72 hours of age; in treated infants, it was seen only after 72 hours. The infants in the treated group took a significantly longer (p less than 0.01) period of time to wean to room air than those in the control group (68.9 +/- 9.6 hours vs 36.6 +/- 6.9 hours). On the basis of these observations, hydrocortisone is not recommended for treatment of MAS.

• Authors: T F Yeh, G Srinivasan, V Harris, R S Pildes
• Journal: The Journal of pediatrics (J Pediatr) Vol. 90 Issue 1 Pg. 140-3 (Jan 1977) ISSN: 0022-3476 [Print] United States
• PMID: 830880 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Controlled Clinical Trial, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Placebos
• Hydrocortisone

Topics

• Drug Evaluation
• Humans
• Hydrocortisone (therapeutic use)
• Infant, Newborn
• Meconium
• Placebos
• Pneumonia, Aspiration (drug therapy)
• Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn (drug therapy)