What is Calfactant?
Calfactant, also known as "surfactant," is an agent that acts on the surface of the lungs. It is essential for normal lung function. Calfactant is similar in nature to the fluid that naturally exists in the lungs and helps to maintain effective breathing.
Calfactant can be used to treat or even prevent respiratory distress syndrome in premature babies whose lungs are not yet fully developed. This medication guide does not list all possible uses for Calfactant.
Side effects of Calfactant
Calfactant has few side effects. It is possible that your baby may have breathing problems during calfactant therapy. These problems could require additional treatment from health professionals. During the treatment with calfactant, your baby will be under constant supervision. There may be other side effects.Call your doctor immediately if experiencing side effects; for FDA reporting purposes call them directly on 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
This medication will be administered to your baby in the neonatal intensive-care unit (NICU) of a hospital or other similar setting.
Calfactant can be given directly to the baby through a breathing tube connected to a ventilator. A ventilator is a machine that helps your baby breathe better and get enough oxygen. You will be able to monitor your baby at all times during the treatment.
Before you take this drug
Follow all instructions given by the carers of your baby to the letter.
How to take Calfactant?
The breathing tube is used to administer the caloric acid directly into your baby's lungs. This medication will be administered to your baby in a neonatal care unit or other hospital settings. The breathing tube is attached to a ventilator, which helps your baby breathe more easily and get enough oxygen.
The baby is usually given calfactant within 30 minutes of birth. Calfactant can be given up to three times a day, every 12 hours. Calfactant is closely monitored to ensure that your baby's vital signs, such as breathing, blood oxygen levels, and blood pressure, are not affected.
What happens if I miss the dose?
It is unlikely that your child will miss a dose of calfactant, as it is only given by healthcare professionals when needed.
What happens if I overdose?
A healthcare professional administers calfactant in a controlled setting, so an overdose is unlikely. Overdoses of calfactant are not expected to cause life-threatening symptoms.
What should be avoided?
After your baby is treated with calfactant, follow your doctor's instructions regarding any restrictions on feeding, medication, or activity.
Interaction with other drug
The carers of your baby will monitor and manage all medications that are given to him or her during the NICU treatment. It is unlikely that drug interactions will occur between the calfactant, other medications, or the NICU. This includes vitamins, minerals, and herbal products. This includes minerals or herbal products.
