What is this medication?

CALFACTANT (kal FAKT ant) prevents and treats respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), a condition that can occur in infants whose lungs are not fully developed. It works by helping the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs stay open, which makes it easier to breathe. It belongs to a group of medications called surfactants.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Infasurf

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • An unusual or allergic reaction to calfactant, beef products, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is applied to the lungs through a breathing tube. It is given by your care team in the hospital.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as newborn for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Certain inhaled antibiotics

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Bleeding in the brain—trouble breathing, high-pitched crying, swelling or bulging of soft spots on the head, seizures
  • Slow heartbeat or low blood pressure—pale, blue or purple skin or lips, unusual weakness or fatigue, cold arms or legs

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in the hospital. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.