Calfactant

Generic name: Calfactant
Brand names: Infasurf
Dosage form: intratracheal suspension (35.7 mg/mL)
Drug class: Lung surfactants

Usage of Calfactant

Calfactant is a lung surface acting agent, or "surfactant." It helps the lungs function normally. Calfactant is similar to the natural fluid in the lungs that helps maintain effective breathing.

Calfactant is used to treat or prevent respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in a premature baby whose lungs have not fully developed.

Calfactant may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Calfactant side effects

Calfactant causes few side effects. There is a possibility that the baby will have breathing difficulties during the calfactant treatment, and these problems may require further treatment by health care professionals. Your baby will remain under constant supervision during treatment with calfactant.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Calfactant

To best participate in the care of your baby while he or she is in the NICU, carefully follow all instructions provided by your baby's caregivers.

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How to use Calfactant

Calfactant is given directly into the baby's lungs through a breathing tube. Your baby will receive this medication in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or similar hospital setting.

The breathing tube is connected to a ventilator (a machine that moves air in and out of the lungs to help your baby breathe easier and get enough oxygen).

Calfactant is given as soon as possible after the baby's birth, usually within 30 minutes.

Calfactant is usually given every 12 hours for up to 3 doses.

Your baby's breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely during treatment with calfactant.

Warnings

Your baby will receive this medication in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or similar hospital setting.

Calfactant is given directly into the baby's lungs through a breathing tube that is also connected to a ventilator (a machine that moves air in and out of the lungs to help your baby breathe easier and get enough oxygen).

Your baby will remain under constant supervision during treatment with calfactant.

What other drugs will affect Calfactant

Your baby's caregivers will manage and monitor all medications given to your baby during treatment in the NICU. A drug interaction between calfactant and other medications is not expected to occur.

Do not give any medications to your baby that have not been prescribed by the baby's doctor. This includes vitamins, minerals, or herbal products.

Disclaimer

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