Croup future or investigational therapies

Heliox – a combination of helium and oxygen – is currently being studied for efficacy in treating croup. It works by reducing upper airway resistance to gas flow, relieving respiratory distress. There is early evidence that it is as effective as racemic epinephrine in treating moderate and severe croup. Further randomized trials and investigational studies are being pursued.

• Helium and oxygen combined into “heliox” breathing gas can be used to alleviate croup symptoms by reducing upper airway obstruction.^[1]
  • Upper airway resistance to gas flow is reduced to relieve respiratory distress.
• There is evidence that suggests heliox can be as effective as racemic epinephrine in relieving moderate to severe croup symptoms.^[2].
• Studies have not yet consistently determined if heliox is effective in treating all forms of croup and further investigational randomized trials are being pursued.^[1]