Hemodynamic Effects and Safety of Nesiritide in Neonates with Heart Failure

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate effects and safety of nesiritide (Natrecor, Scios Inc.) human B-type natriuretic peptide, in neonates with heart failure. METHODS: Seventeen neonates, not responding to conventional therapy, treated with nesiritide were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: Average age 16 + 8 days; weight 3.2 + 0.6 kg. Fifteen treated with concomitant inotropic therapy; all with diuretics. Twelve received loading dose; followed by continuous infusions of 0.005 mcg/kg/min (2); 0.01 mcg/kg/min (12); 0.02 mcg/kg/min (3). Length of therapy 5 + 4 days. No change in heart rate or blood pressure between baseline, 1 hour or 24 hours of nesiritide infusion. Decrease central venous pressure (CVP) 24 hours after infusion (p = 0.03). Ins-out ratio improved in 29%. No difference in pre and post therapy BUN and creatinine (Cr). 18% had hypotension requiring intervention. CONCLUSIONS: Nesiritide use in neonates may improve hemodynamics as demonstrated by reduction in CVP. All patients tolerated bolus dosing, however, transient hypotension occurred in 18% of neonates with continuous infusion.