Indomethacin treatment decreases renal blood flow velocity in human neonates

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of indomethacin (ID) on rena l perfusion in 13 neonates with symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). Serial blood flow velocity in the left renal artery was measured just befo re and at 10, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 min after ID administration. Serum crea tinine (Cr), sodium (Na), and osmolarity were measured just before, at 12 a nd 24 h, and at 3 days after ID administration, Timed urine also was collec ted for measurement of amount, fractional excretion of Na (FENa), and creat inine clearance (C-Cr). ID decreased end-diastolic flow velocity of renal a rtery and increased Pourcelot's index, starting at 10 min and tasting for 7 5 min (p < 0.05). Serum Cr significantly increased at 12 h, and hourly urin e output and C-Cr decreased for 24 h. Serum Na and osmolarity decreased for a period of at least 3 days (p < 0.05). FENa decreased at 12-24 h (p < 0.0 5). We conclude that ID treatment can induce significant renal dysfunction due to diminution of renal perfusion in human neonates.