In the neonate, hyperbilirubinaemia is usually due to a combination of an increased bilirubin
load and decreased bilirubin elimination. Despite an understanding of the enzymatic
pathways leading to bilirubin production and elimination, very few pharmacological
interventions to prevent hyperbilirubinaemia are utilized and the mainstay of treatment
remains phototherapy. Previously studied pharmacological agents such as D-penicillamine,
phenobarbital and clofibrate may yet prove useful. Recent clinical trials using …