Side effects of Prostaglandin E1 on neonates

Prostaglandin E1 used in:
 Maintain patency or reopen ductus arteriosus in case of
1. Cyanotic Congenital Heart Disease
  • Transposition of the Great Vessels
  • Tricuspid atresia
2. Aortic Coarctation

# Side effects are common and potentially lethal

1. Flushing
2. peripheral edema
3. Hypotension
4. Apnea
5. Hyperpyrexia
6. Jitteriness
7. Diarrhea
8. Hypoglycemia
9. Hypocalcemia
10. Renal Failure
11. Rhythm disturbance
12. Coagulopathies

Note that : Start with "x" mg of Prostaglandin E1( Where "x" = 0.3 x WeightKg )
-Add enough D5W or NS to Prostaglandin for 50 ml total
At this dilution: Infusion rate of 0.5 ml/min provides 0.05 ug/kg