Bicarbonate therapy revisited. A study in therapeutic revisionism

A. I. Eidelman and J. F. Hobbs

In summary, infusion of bicarbonate in the treatment of neonatal acidosis has limited value. Although it may be useful adjunct in the resuscitation of severely depressed and acidotic infants, its efficacy in the management of postasphyxia acidosis or RDS is not supported by any data. The clear risks and disadvantages of such infusions should warn against its current indiscriminate use.