Disclaimer to the Online Edition
This Manual has been designed for use in the NICU at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), London, Ontario, Canada, and represents clinical practice at this institution. The information contained within the Manual may not be applicable to other centres. If users of this Manual are not familiar with a drug, it is recommended that the official monograph be consulted before it is prescribed and administered. Any user of this information is advised that the contributors, Editor and LHSC are not responsible for any errors or omissions, and / or any consequences arising from the use of the information in this Manual.
caffeine
Indication
- Treatment of apnea of prematurity
Dosage Guidelines
- Loading dose: 10 mg/kg IV/oral (as caffeine base)
- Maintenance dose: 2.5-5 mg/kg/dose IV/oral (as caffeine base) daily to start 24 hours after the loading dose
Administration
- IV intermittent slow infusion over 30 minutes
- Oral
Adverse Effects
- Tachycardia, tachypnea, jitteriness, hyperreflexia, gastric irritation and vomiting
- Seizures have been seen with toxic levels, arrhythmias and increased diuresis
Comments
- Half-life 40 to 230 hours in preterm infants
- Tolerance may develop to diuretic and CNS effects
- If resting heart rate is greater than 18O beats/min, consult with MD/NP before administering dose
Supplied As
10 mg/mL caffeine (base) present as caffeine citrate in IV syringes prepared by Pharmacy
10 mg/mL caffeine base oral liquid
References
Lexi Sick Kids, Lexi Peds and Neofax