Use of propranolol for treatment of infantile haemangiomas in an outpatient setting

Abstract

Introduction: Propranolol has recently emerged as an effective drug treatment for infantile haemangiomas. The side effect profile of the drug and the safety of administering propranolol in outpatient settings in this age group remain uncertain. We report our experience with 200 infants and children prescribed propranolol to treat infantile haemangiomas, including 37 patients considered to have a poor response to treatment. Method: Patients were prescribed propranolol (1 mg/kg/dose bd) as outpatients at the Vascular Anomalies Service at the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne. Results: The median age at commencement was 4 months (range 5 days-7 years). Twenty patients were older than 12 mont..