Question
A 21-day-old newborn has a bilirubin index of 15.2. I am seeking treatment advice without blue light therapy.
Answer
Enzyme inducers and adrenal cortical hormones can enhance the liver cells’ ability to bind bilirubin, reducing the serum level of unbound bilirubin. Phenobarbital or niclosamide can be used as enzyme inducers, or prednisone or hydrocortisone as adrenal cortical hormones. Effects may be observed within 2-3 days of medication.