Role of ursodeoxycholic acid in neonatal indirect hyperbilirubinemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

Abstract Background Neonatal jaundice is a transitional phenomenon affecting three out of five full-term newborns globally. Ursodeoxycholic acid could be beneficial in neonatal jaundice needing phototherapy.  Methods We searched PubMed, EBSCO, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library up to August 21st, 2021, for articles to be reviewed. Meta-analysis using random-effects model was performed. Results Eight studies involving 1116 neonates were chosen in this review; however, only five studies were included for meta-analysis. Phototherapy duration was significantly lower in the interventional group with high heterogeneities. Subgroup analysis of the phototherapy duration based on the risk of bias resulted in a shorter duration (mean difference (MD) = –17.82; 95% CI = –20.17 to –15.47; p =  < 0.001) with low heterogeneity in the treatment group. Secondary outcome focusing on mean total serum bilirubin showed a lower mean total serum bilirubin in 48 h post-treatment (MD = –0.43; 95% CI = –0.64 to –0.22; p =  < 0.0001) with low heterogeneities in Asian countries.” Conclusions Ursodeoxycholic acid might be considered as a novel adjuvant therapy in neonatal indirect hyperbilirubinemia to shorten the phototherapy duration and lower the mean total serum bilirubin.