Closure of the Ductus Arteriosus in Premature Infants by Inhibition of Prostaglandin Synthesis

Abstract

Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis constricts the ductus arteriosus in fetal lambs in utero. We administered the inhibitors, aspirin or indomethacin to 18 premature infants with patent ductus arteriosus, and assessed the effects clinically and by echocardiography (left atrial/aortic-root ratio). After aspirin (20 mg per kilogram, every six hours for four doses) the ductus closed permanently in one infant within 24 hours; in another, constriction occurred with clinical improvement, and the third did not respond.