Emerging drugs for the prevention of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Background: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a common adverse outcome of very premature birth and is associated with chronic respiratory morbidity. Objective: To determine if there were preventative therapies proven safe and efficacious in appropriately powered randomised trials. Methods: A literature review was undertaken. Results: Systemically administered corticosteroids, if given in the first 2 weeks, do significantly reduce BPD but have serious side effects. Vitamin A also reduces BPD, but has side effects, and further investigation is needed to identify the safest dosage regimen. There are, however, promising therapies that include antioxidants, low-dose nitric oxide and methylxanthines. Conclusion: Further work is necessary to identify safe and effective preventative drugs for BPD.