Lactoferrin Does Not Improve Outcomes for Very Preterm Infants

In a large randomized trial, enteral lactoferrin supplementation did not reduce rates of late-onset sepsis.

Late-onset sepsis remains one of the most important complications of prematurity. Even though rates have decreased in recent years, sepsis continues to complicate the course of more than 20% of very low birth weight babies and increase their morbidity and mortality. Lactoferrin has antimicrobial properties, and previous small studies suggested that lactoferrin reduces the incidence of late-onset sepsis.

The ELFIN investigators enrolled 2203 infants <32 weeks' gestation and <72 hours of age across 37 neonatal units in the U.K. Infants were randomized (1:1) to bovine lactoferrin (150 mg/kg/day, begun after infants were receiving at least 12 mL/kg of enteral feedings, and continued to 34 weeks' postmenstrual age), or sucrose placebo. Lactoferri…

Reviewing Author

Robin H. Steinhorn, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardActelion Pharmaceuticals

Editorial BoardsJournal of Pediatrics

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Pediatric Society (President); American Board of Pediatrics (Board of Directors)

Robin H. Steinhorn, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardActelion Pharmaceuticals

Editorial BoardsJournal of Pediatrics

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Pediatric Society (President); American Board of Pediatrics (Board of Directors)

Lactoferrin Does Not Improve Outcomes for Very Preterm Infants

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Reviewing Author