Milk protein may shield preemie lungs from ventilator infection

NCT ID NCT07255742

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether giving lactoferrin, a protein found in milk, to preterm babies on breathing machines could prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Fifty premature newborns received either lactoferrin plus standard care or standard care alone. The goal was to see if the supplement reduced infections, shortened time on the ventilator, and cut hospital stays.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

lactoferrin (a dietary supplement)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple, low-cost way to prevent a serious lung infection in premature babies on ventilators.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed trial with only 50 babies, so results may not apply to all newborns. Lactoferrin might not reduce pneumonia risk and could cause digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Pneumonia, Ventilator-Associated

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Tanta University Children's Hospital

    Tanta, Egypt