SURVANTA 25MG INJECTION 4 ML

How SURVANTA 25MG INJECTION 4 ML Works

• SURVANTA (beractant) is a pulmonary surfactant used to treat and prevent Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in premature infants. RDS occurs because the lungs of premature babies often lack a natural substance called surfactant, which helps the lungs inflate and prevents the air sacs from collapsing.
• SURVANTA works by replenishing this missing surfactant in the infant's lungs. Its key ingredient, beractant, is a modified natural bovine (cow) lung extract. This extract contains a mixture of phospholipids, neutral lipids, fatty acids, and surfactant-associated proteins (SP-B and SP-C). These components work synergistically to reduce surface tension in the alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lungs).
• Here's a breakdown of how SURVANTA's components function:
• * **Phospholipids (primarily dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine or DPPC):** DPPC is the most important phospholipid in surfactant. It forms a monolayer at the air-liquid interface in the alveoli, reducing surface tension dramatically during exhalation. This prevents the alveoli from collapsing and makes it easier to inflate the lungs with each breath.
• * **Neutral Lipids:** These lipids, including triglycerides and cholesterol, contribute to the spreading and stability of the surfactant film.
• * **Fatty Acids:** Similar to neutral lipids, they contribute to surfactant film's stability and help with spreading.
• * **Surfactant-Associated Proteins (SP-B and SP-C):** These proteins are crucial for the proper function of the surfactant. SP-B helps to rapidly adsorb the phospholipids to the air-liquid interface and promotes the spreading of the surfactant film. SP-C also aids in surfactant spreading and contributes to the stability of the surfactant layer.
• By reducing surface tension, SURVANTA allows the alveoli to remain open, improving gas exchange (oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide removal). This reduces the work of breathing for the infant and improves oxygenation, ultimately preventing or lessening the severity of RDS.
• In essence, SURVANTA mimics the action of natural surfactant, providing the lungs with the necessary components to function effectively. It’s administered directly into the infant's trachea via an endotracheal tube, allowing the surfactant to spread throughout the lungs and coat the alveolar surfaces. This helps stabilize the lungs and make each breath easier.

Like all medicines, SURVANTA 25MG INJECTION 4 ML can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. **Common Side Effects:** * Slow heart rate (bradycardia) * Low oxygen levels (hypoxemia) * Blockage of the endotracheal tube * Lung consolidation * Intracranial hemorrhage * Pneumothorax **Less Common Side Effects:** * Apnea (temporary cessation of breathing) * Pulmonary hemorrhage **Rare Side Effects:** * None reported, but it is important to monitor the infant closely for any unexpected changes.

• Since Survanta is administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting, the possibility of missing a dose is unlikely. Survanta is given based on the infant's weight and clinical condition. If you have any concerns about the dosage, please consult the attending physician.

• Keep SURVANTA 25MG INJ 4ML away from the reach of children and pets.
• Store SURVANTA 25MG INJ 4ML in a refrigerator (2 - 8°C). Do not freeze.

• **Early Administration is Key:** SURVANTA (beractant) is most effective when administered as soon as possible after birth to infants at risk of, or with established, Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS). Prompt treatment can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the severity of RDS.
• **Proper Positioning During Administration:** Ensure the infant is properly positioned during SURVANTA administration. Reposition the infant after each quarter-dose to optimize distribution of the drug throughout the lungs. Typical positions include head-up and rotated to the right, then head-up and rotated to the left, followed by head-down and rotated to the right, and finally head-down and rotated to the left. This ensures optimal lung coverage.
• **Monitor Vital Signs Closely:** Continuous monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, is crucial during and after SURVANTA administration. Be prepared to manage potential side effects like transient bradycardia (slow heart rate) and decreased oxygen saturation. Have appropriate resuscitation equipment readily available.
• **Avoid Suctioning Immediately After Administration:** To maximize the effectiveness of SURVANTA, avoid suctioning the infant for at least one hour after administration, unless clinically indicated. Suctioning can remove the surfactant from the lungs, reducing its beneficial effects. If suctioning is necessary, do so gently and sparingly.
• **Educate Parents and Caregivers:** Provide clear and concise information to parents and caregivers about SURVANTA, its purpose, and potential side effects. Explain the importance of continuous monitoring and the need to report any changes in the infant's condition to the healthcare team promptly. Emphasize that SURVANTA is part of a comprehensive treatment plan for RDS.

• SURVANTA 25MG INJECTION 4 ML is administered directly into the lungs of premature infants and does not interact with food. It is given by medical professionals in a hospital setting. Therefore, food interactions are not applicable.