Zeitschrift für Geburtshilfe und Neonatologie
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Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol · Apr 2005
Case ReportsPrenatal constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus--related to maternal pain medication?
Physiological fetal circulation requires patency of the ductus arteriosus. As gestation proceeds, the sensitivity of the ductus to dilating prostaglandins diminishes. The sensitivity to constricting agents like PGE-synthetase inhibitors, present in many analgetics, however, increases. ⋯ In contrast to ibuprofen and high-dose aspirin, metamizole and low-dose aspirin have not yet been reported as possible agents constricting the fetal arterial duct. In any suspected context, early delivery as in our cases may save babies life. Any application of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in pregnancy requires close fetal follow-up due to their potentially life-threatening effect.