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Inhaled iloprost is an effective alternative therapy for persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn
  • Sukran Yildirim
Sukran Yildirim
Saglik Bilimleri Universitesi

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

Purpose: Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) is a disease with potential serious morbidity and mortality. Inhaled iloprost, a stable analogue of prostacyclin, has recently been used as a therapeutic option. However, there are no clinical guidelines on the use of iloprost, specifically for neonates. This study aimed to suggest the use of inhaled iloprost as a rescue therapy for PPHN based on our experience. Methods: This was a retrospective study. The data from medical records of 6 newborns (3 late preterm, 3 term), diagnosed as persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn and had received inhaled iloprost from December 2019 to April 2022 were collected. Demographic and clinical features, dosing regimen, changes in oxygenation index, echocardiographic findings and mortality were evaluated. Results: The inhalation dose was 2-4 mcg/dose, and 3-48 inhalations per day were applied over 2-7 days. Inhaled iloprost was effective in all patients. No side effects attributable to inhaled iloprost and no mortality was recorded. Conclusion: Our experience suggests that inhaled iloprost can be used as a firstĀ­-line therapy in newborn infants with PPHN when inhaled nitric oxide is not available, although there are large fluctuations in oxygenation index due to setting.