From the Research
Isuprel (isoproterenol) is not recommended for infants due to the lack of established dosing guidelines and potential risks of serious side effects, and instead, alternative medications with better-established pediatric safety profiles should be considered under careful medical supervision. The provided evidence does not directly address the dosing of Isuprel (isoproterenol) for infants, but it highlights the challenges of prescribing inhaled medications to pediatric patients, particularly neonates and infants, due to the lack of approved drug/device combinations for this age group 1. When considering the treatment of infants, it is crucial to prioritize medications with established safety profiles and dosing guidelines for pediatric patients. For instance, a study on the use of inhaled epoprostenol for pulmonary hypertension in neonates showed improvement in oxygenation index and fraction of inspired oxygen without significant adverse effects 2, demonstrating the importance of selecting appropriate medications for specific conditions in infants. However, the use of medications like ACE inhibitors in infants is associated with potential risks, including kidney problems and hypotension, as seen in a study on the side effects of captopril in newborns and young infants 3. Given the potential risks and the lack of direct evidence on Isuprel (isoproterenol) dosing for infants, alternative medications with better-established pediatric dosing and safety profiles should be preferred, and any treatment should be guided by careful medical supervision, considering the infant's weight, age, and specific condition. Additionally, the importance of monitoring and caution when prescribing medications to infants is emphasized by studies on the efficacy and safety of other medications, such as ibuprofen, in this age group 4. Therefore, the approach to treating infants should always prioritize their safety and well-being, using medications with established pediatric guidelines and under close medical supervision.