Tolerance of a sterile isotonic electrolyte solution containing select recombinant growth factors in neonates recovering from necrotizing enterocolitis.

Objective: To assess the tolerance of a sterile isotonic electrolyte solution containing select recombinant growth factors enterally administered in neonates who were NPO because of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

Study Design: A phase I trial was accomplished among 30 neonates. Patients received 5, 10, or 20 mL enterally of the study solution/kg/day divided into every 3-hour dosing, for 3 days prior to when feedings of milk were to resume. The occurrence of emesis, gastric residuals, diarrhea, bloody stools, abdominal distention, skin rashes and death were sought.

Results: Gestational ages ranged from 25.2 to 41.1 weeks. A total of 16 neonates had Stage IA NEC, six Stage IB, and eight Stage IIA. The solution was well tolerated in all 30; none developed diarrhea, guaiac positive or bloody stools, or abdominal distention. Administration of the solution was not prematurely discontinued in any infant. Two neonates died secondary to late-onset sepsis remote from the study period.

Conclusions: Enteral administration of a sterile isotonic electrolyte solution containing select recombinant growth factors was well tolerated by neonates with NEC.