Efficacy of naloxone in a newborn with Listeria monocytogenes septic shock

In septic shock a progressive reduction in blood pressure is observed, which can be resistant to volume expansion and to treatment with vasopressor agents. Massive endogen opioids release can depress cardiovascular activity and lead to hypotension, making a rationale for the use of opioid antagonists in treatment of septic shock. Sporadic occasional reports regard the use of naloxone in the newborn. We report a female newborn with Listeria monocytogenes septic shock resistant to therapy with plasma expanders, catecholamines, corticosteroids, treated successfully with prolonged naloxone infusion. This is the first report on a successful treatment of neonatal septic shock by Listeria monocytogenes using naloxone; we emphasize the speedy of efficacy of early continuous high-doses infusion of naloxone, without side effects.