Indomethacin for Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Prematures

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Abstract
A controlled, double blind trial of indomethacin versus placebo was conducted in prematures of birth weight <1750 g, with a murmur of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). The dose of indomethacin was 0.2 mg/kg for 2 doses, orally, 24 hours apart. Forty-seven patients entered the trial. Twenty-four received indomethacin and 12 of these met the criteria for response; 23 received the placebo and two met the criteria for response (p < 0.01). Subsequent surgical ligation for symptomatic PDA was required in 13 of 23 in the placebo group and 4 of 24 in the indomethacin group (p < 0.01). When administered early, indomethacin is moderately effective in closing PDA in premature infants.