Changes in Respiratory Parameters After Caffeine Administration in Mechanically Ventilated Premature Neonates

Background: Caffeine is an established treatment for neonates in the prevention and treatment of apnea of prematurity. A recent investigation demonstrated a reduction in ventilator days in neonates who receive early caffeine administration. Caffeine is known to stimulate breathing and increase sensitivity to carbon dioxide in non-ventilated infants possibly reducing the need for invasive ventilation. We sought to identify the respiratory effects of caffeine during ventilation in mechanically ventilated premature neonates. Methods: Data files of neonates Results: Sixty-seven infants with ventilator data and caffeine within the first 72 h of life were included. The mean gestational age was 27 ± 2 weeks with birth weight of 1,059 ± 360 grams. Caffeine infusion started at 5.10 ± 8.65 h of life. A total of 2,493 breaths were analyzed (Figure 1). Conclusions: There was an increase in spontaneous breathing frequency and a decrease in tidal volumes, peak inspiratory pressure, and delivered oxygen after caffeine administration. Disclosures: None.