Question

Indomethacin when given beyond 36 weeks what will happen

• A. Premature closure of PDA
• B. Still birth
• C. No effect
• D. Teratogenic

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. In obstetrics, it is sometimes used for the management of preterm labor. However, it is crucial to understand the implications of indomethacin administration during specific gestational periods, particularly beyond 36 weeks.

One of the known effects of indomethacin administration late in pregnancy, specifically beyond 32 weeks and more critically beyond 36 weeks, is the potential for premature closure of the ductus arteriosus (PDA) in the fetus. The ductus arteriosus is a fetal blood vessel that connects the pulmonary artery to the descending aorta, allowing blood to bypass the non-functioning fetal lungs. Before birth, the closure of this vessel is not ideal, as it can lead to fetal complications including:

• Pulmonary hypertension
• Right-sided heart failure
• Decreased cardiac output

Given these risks, indomethacin is typically avoided late in pregnancy to prevent these fetal complications. Therefore, among the provided options, the correct answer to what happens when indomethacin is given beyond 36 weeks is:

Premature closure of PDA