Propranolol for the treatment of infantile hemangiomas

January 01, 0001

Propranolol for the treatment of infantile hemangiomas

These Australian researchers tested the safety and efficacy of propranolol for treating infantile hemangiomas (IHs). They performed a randomized controlled trial in which children aged 9 weeks to 5 years (n=40) with facial or potentiall disfiguring IHs were randomized to either propranolol or placebo 3 times daily for 6 months. Baseline and ongoing cardiac testing were performed. Blinded volume measurements were made every four weeks.

The researchers found: "IH growth stopped by week 4 in the propranolol group. Significant differences in the percent change in volume were seen between groups, with the largest difference at week 12. Significant decrease in IH redness and elevation occurred in the propranolol group at weeks 12 and 24. No significant hypoglycemia, hypotension, or bradycardia occurred. One child discontinued the study because of an upper respiratory tract infection. Other adverse events included bronchiolitis, gastroenteritis, streptococcal infection, cool extremities, dental caries, and sleep disturbance."

The researchers concluded: "Propranolol hydrochloride administered orally at 2 mg/kg per day reduced the volume, color, and elevation of focal and segmental IH in infants younger than 6 months and children up to 5 years of age."

This small randomized controlled trial finds propranolol is safe and effective for the treatment of infantile hemangiomas.

For the full abstract, click here.

Pediatrics 128(2):e259-e266, August 2011 © 2011 American Academy of Pediatrics
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Propranolol for Infantile Hemangiomas. Marcia Hogeling, Susan Adams, Orli Wargon.

Category: S. Skin. Keywords: propranolol, hemangioma, treatment, infants, children, randomized controlled trial, journal watch.
Synopsis edited by Dr Paul Schaefer, Toledo, Ohio. Posted on Global Family Doctor 6 September 2011

Pearls are an independent product of the Cochrane primary care group and are meant for educational use and not to guide clinical care.

COVID-19 Resources

WONCA webinars, journal links and more

WONCA position statements

WONCA statements on a variety of issues

PEARLS

577 Individual behavioural counselling helps people to quit smoking 575 Antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplements may be beneficial in age-related macular degeneration 574 Oral antifungals effective for toenail onychomycosis 570 Decision aids beneficial for people facing health treatment or screening decisions 569 Computer-generated reminders on paper benefit quality of care