Furosemide Promotes Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Premature Infants with the Respiratory-Distress Syndrome

Abstract

Furosemide stimulates the renal synthesis of prostaglandin E₂, a potent dilator of the ductus arteriosus. We administered this drug to 33 premature infants with the respiratory-distress syndrome, to determine whether it increased the incidence of patent ductus arteriosus. Chlorothiazide, a diuretic that does not stimulate prostaglandin E synthesis, was used as the control drug in 33 other infants.