D. Singh, P. Kumar, S. Majumdar, A. Narang
Effect of Phenobarbital on free radicals in neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy – a randomized controlled trial
Background: Phenobarbital is one of the oldest, cheapest
and easily available cerebroprotective drugs for the
hypoxic brain. However, its potential and various actions
have not been fully explored.
Aim: To evaluate the effects of Phenobarbital on levels
of oxidants and anti-oxidants in term and near term neonates
with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy.
Methods: Design–randomized controlled trial. Setting–tertiary care referral perinatal centre. Procedure–asphyxiated neonates (gestation ?34 weeks) with HIE
were randomized to receive Phenobarbital 20 mg/kg IV
within first six hours of life or to control group. CSF levels
of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD),
glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and blood levels of vitamins
A and E were estimated at 10–12 hours of age.
Results: CSF levels of MDA, SOD, GPx and blood levels
of vitamins A and E were significantly lower in the Phenobarbital
group (p<0.001). There was a trend towards
lower levels of CSF MDA, SOD, GPx and blood vitamins
A and E in babies with normal outcome as compared to
babies with adverse outcome (death or neurologically
abnormal at discharge).
Conclusion: Phenobarbital in the dose of 20 mg/kg IV
given within 6 hours of life in term and near-term neonates
with HIE, was associated with a decrease in lipid
peroxides, anti-oxidant enzymes and anti-oxidant
vitamins.
Journal of Perinatal Medicine, Walter de Gruyter
Print ISSN: 1619-3997
Volume: 32, 05/2004
Pages: 278 - 281
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