What is a common management strategy for a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in neonates?

Indomethacin and ibuprofen administration is a common management strategy for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in neonates because both medications are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that help promote the closure of the ductus arteriosus. In preterm infants, the ductus arteriosus often remains open, or patent, which can lead to significant cardiovascular complications.

Indomethacin works by inhibiting prostaglandin E1 synthesis, a compound that helps keep the ductus open. By decreasing its levels, indomethacin supports the closure of the ductus. Ibuprofen also functions similarly by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins but is sometimes preferred due to a potentially more favorable side effect profile. The administration of these medications can reduce clinical symptoms associated with PDA and help avoid the need for more invasive procedures.

Fluid restriction is generally not a primary treatment for PDA, as it does not directly lead to ductal closure and focuses instead on managing fluid status due to potential heart failure from left-to-right shunting. Surgical ligation is performed in cases where medical management is ineffective or there are severe hemodynamic consequences, but it is not the first line of treatment. While PEEP