Which drug is used to keep a patent ductus arteriosus open in a neonate?

Which drug is used to keep a patent ductus arteriosus open in a neonate?

• A. Ibuprofen
• B. Indomethacin
• C. Acetaminophen
• D. Prostaglandin E1

Answer: (D)

Maintaining ductus arteriosus patency in certain newborns relies on prostaglandin signaling. Prostaglandin E1 (alprostadil) keeps the ductus arteriosus open by acting as a vasodilator on the smooth muscle of the ductus, preventing its normal postnatal constriction. This is crucial in babies with ductus-dependent congenital heart defects, where ongoing patency of the ductus allows adequate blood flow until corrective surgery. Other drugs listed promote closure rather than openness. Indomethacin and ibuprofen inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, encouraging the ductus to close. Acetaminophen can also reduce prostaglandin production and help close a PDA. Therefore, the agent that best maintains the ductus open is prostaglandin E1.

Maintaining ductus arteriosus patency in certain newborns relies on prostaglandin signaling. Prostaglandin E1 (alprostadil) keeps the ductus arteriosus open by acting as a vasodilator on the smooth muscle of the ductus, preventing its normal postnatal constriction. This is crucial in babies with ductus-dependent congenital heart defects, where ongoing patency of the ductus allows adequate blood flow until corrective surgery.

Other drugs listed promote closure rather than openness. Indomethacin and ibuprofen inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, encouraging the ductus to close. Acetaminophen can also reduce prostaglandin production and help close a PDA. Therefore, the agent that best maintains the ductus open is prostaglandin E1.