Antiglucocorticoid therapy for the prevention of neurological damage in premature infants

Abstract

This invention pertains to the discovery that agents which inhibit the binding of cortisol to its receptors can be used in methods for preventing neurological damage associated with glucocorticoid therapy in ventilator-dependent low birth weight preterm infants. Mifepristone, a potent glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, can be used in these methods.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 489,601, filed Jul. 23, 2003.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention is directed to a method for preventing neurological damage in a ventilator-dependant low birth weight preterm infant in need of postnatal glucocorticoid therapy. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Low birth weight (less than 2500 grams) accounts for seven percent of all births in the United States and is the most important factor associated with infant mortality (National Center for Health Statistics, Healthy People 2000: Maternal and Infant Heath Progress Review, 1999). [0004] Chronic lung disease (CLD), also known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a frequent and increasing complication in premature infants, usually presenting within the first 4 weeks after birth. The incidence and severity of CLD is inversely proportional to gestational age. Along with respiratory...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011] Accordingly, the present invention provides a method for preventing neurological damage in ventilator-dependent low birth weight preterm infants receiving postnatal glucocorticoid therapy. The method comprises concomitant administration of glucocorticoid receptor antagonists with postnatal glucocorticoids.

[0018] Thus, the invention provides a new, effective treatment for the prevention of neurological damage in ventilator-dependent low birth weight preterm infants receiving postnatal glucocorticoid therapy.

Problems solved by technology

CLD is a common complication in premature infants having RDS, although any newborn with severe respiratory problems is at risk for CLD.

Lack of surfactant leads to alveoli collapse, decreased lung capacity and edema.

The inflammation and injury leads to delayed pulmonary growth and development.

Thus, despite the success of glucocorticoid therapy for treating pulmonary inflammation in ventilator-dependent low birth weight preterm infants, there are growing concerns regarding the short and long term adverse effects experienced by glucocorticoid treated premature infants.

The long term neurological disorders are however, the most disconcerting adverse effects.

Thus, while glucocorticoid therapy is a rapid and effective treatment for inflammation, the potential risk for permanent neurological damage threatens to eliminate this promising treatment.