Prostaglandin E1 in suspected ductus dependent cardiac malformation.

Fifty two sick neonates with major duct dependent cardiac defects were given short term intravenous infusions of prostaglandin E1 (alprostadil) in doses varying between 0.005 and 0.1 micrograms/kg/minute. The object of the study was to try to achieve an effective but safe regiment that could be instituted as soon as such a diagnosis was suspected. Effective clinical improvement was achieved at each dosage but the incidence of side effects seemed to be dose related, and no serious side effects were noted at a dosage of 0.005 to 0.01 micrograms/kg/minute. It is recommended that a low dosage regimen be started before transfer to a paediatric cardiac centre.