The present disclosure relates to treatment of subpopulation of neonates for reducing the risk of IVH and / or severe IVH, such as grade 3 or 4 IVH by administering a therapeutic amount of a composition comprising IGF-1 and an IGF
binding protein (such as IGFBP-3), for example as a complex, at a
dose of 200-500 μg / Kg / day. In a further aspect there is provided stabilisation of vital functions when hyperosmolarity occurs and / or protection from circulatory collapse.