This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

The U.S. FDA approved Beractant for pulmonary disorders on March 7, 1991. Beractant belong to the medication class known as pulmonary surfactants. It is extracted from cow’s lungs to help the children breathe.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Beractant works by providing a substance called surfactant to the baby's lungs. This surfactant helps the lungs work better by reducing the tension on the surfaces of the air sacs. It also helps keep the air sacs open and prevents them from collapsing during breathing. This makes it easier for the baby to breathe and improves their lung function.

Uses of undefined

Beractant prevents and treats Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in premature newborns with a birth weight of 700g or more. It is also used for premature babies born before 32 weeks of pregnancy at risk of RDS and need a tube inserted into their windpipe for stabilization. RDS is a condition in which the lungs of premature babies are not fully developed, leading to breathing difficulties.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Beractant should be administered by a well-trained physician. It should be administered via the endotracheopulmonary route. A dose will be given through a tube or catheter placed in the windpipe. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Do not self-administer. 

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Beractant should not be consumed if you are allergic to Beractant or any of its ingredients in the medication. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious eye symptoms, heart issues, or severe neurological symptoms while using this medication. Consult your healthcare provider for any concerns or allergies.

Precautions

Beractant should only be administered in a closely monitored clinical setting by an experienced physician familiar with premature infant care. Monitoring of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels is essential during treatment. If bradycardia or decreased oxygen saturation occurs during dosing, the procedure should be paused, and appropriate measures are taken. 

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Beractant are noisy breathing, feeding or bowel problems, and bleeding around the endotracheal tube. 

Word Of Advice

Beractant is not intended for the pregnant and breastfeeding women. Notify your doctor if your baby experiences any serious side effects. Contact your doctor for more information. Store the medicine at 2°C to 8°C.

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Abbvie Ltd; Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC); [Revised on June 2020] [Accessed on 24th July 2023], pil.834.pdf (medicines.org.uk)
  2. AbbVie Inc; US Food and Drug Administration; [Revised on December 2019] [Accessed on 24th July 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/020032s045lbl.pdf
  3. AbbVie corporation; Survanta; Patient medication information; [Revised on 04th June 2021] [Accessed on 24th July 2023], https://www.abbvie.ca/content/dam/abbvie-dotcom/ca/en/documents/products/SURVANTA_PM_EN.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.