Continuous infusion versus intermittent bolus doses of indomethacin for patent ductus arteriosus closure in symptomatic preterm infants.

Indomethacin is a prostaglandin inhibitor used for the prevention and the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). Although a 3-dose schedule has been commonly used, there is no consensus on optimal dosage and duration of indomethacin therapy for PDA closure. There are potential adverse effects of indomethacin use in premature infants such as a reduction in cerebral, mesenteric and renal blood flow and platelet dysfunction. Administering indomethacin continuously over 36-hours has been suggested as a safer and more effective option to prevent such adverse effects.