Which medications are commonly administered in neonatal resuscitation?

In neonatal resuscitation, the administration of epinephrine and volume expanders plays a critical role in treating newborns who are experiencing severe respiratory distress or cardiac arrest. Epinephrine works as a potent vasopressor, stimulating the heart and increasing its rate and output. This is essential for restoring effective circulation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) when a neonate is not responding adequately.

Volume expanders, often in the form of intravenous fluids, are utilized to address hypovolemia, which can occur due to conditions such as sepsis or significant blood loss at birth. These fluids help to restore adequate blood volume, thereby improving circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs.

Other medications listed, such as aspirin and nitroglycerin, are not suitable for neonatal resuscitation, as they are typically used in adults for managing cardiovascular conditions. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are primarily used for pain and fever management rather than in emergency resuscitation protocols. Atropine and sodium bicarbonate have limited roles in neonatal emergencies and are not routinely administered during resuscitation efforts.