Guide To Managing Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Specific Medications

In premature infants, the use of specific medications may help with patent ductus arteriosus. Normally, doctors recommend ibuprofen and indomethacin for this purpose. Both of these block certain hormone-like substances in the body that prevent proper closure of the ductus arteriosus. While ibuprofen may be given orally, indomethacin is given intravenously. Indomethacin causes the muscles within the ductus arteriosus to constrict, which can promote effective closure. Ibuprofen, indomethacin, and similar medicines are only useful in closing the ductus arteriosus of premature babies; these medications are ineffective for full-term infants and adults with the condition. Some infants, including both premature and full-term babies, will need to take other medications that improve the functioning of the heart and lungs. Diuretics, which remove excess fluid from the body through urination, may be needed for these patients, too. Since patent ductus arteriosus can compromise heart function, this might upset the water balance within the body, and diuretics could help correct this.

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