Which medication is commonly used to close a patent ductus arteriosus?

Indomethacin is commonly used to close a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in premature infants. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for maintaining the patency of the ductus arteriosus. By reducing prostaglandin levels, indomethacin effectively promotes the closure of the ductus arteriosus, facilitating normal circulation and reducing the risk of complications associated with a persistent PDA.

While ibuprofen is also an NSAID and can be used for PDA closure in some cases, indomethacin has a more established role and is more traditionally used for this purpose. Aspirin and acetaminophen are not typically indicated for the closure of PDA, as they do not have the same effects on prostaglandins that indomethacin and ibuprofen do. Understanding the pharmacological mechanisms of these medications can help clarify their specific clinical roles in pediatric cardiology.