Effects of Intravenous Nitroglycerin on Hemodynamics in Neonates with Refractory Congestive Heart Failure of PFC

(1) Continuous intravenous infusion (2–10 μ/kg/min) of nitroglycerin (TNG) was administered to 20 neonates consisting of 17 with refractory congestive heart failure and 3 with PFC (Persistent Fetal Circulation). (2) AT doses of 2–4 μ/kg/min, there were no significant changes in heart rate or systemic blood pressue. (3) At doses of 2–4 μ/kg/min, the CVP was significantly reduced and urnary output increased. (4) Echocardiograms revealed a significant decrease in LVS at 4 – 5 μ/kg/min. In addition, the EF and cardiac output were significantly increased at 2 – 5 μ/kg/min. (5) The right ventricle systolic time interval (STI) was reduced significantly at 2 μ/kg/min. The left ventricle STI was not reduced below doses of 4 μ/kg/min. (6) In the dose range 2 – 5 μ/kg/min, TNG is an effective and safe vasodilator in the treatment of refractory congestive heart failure or PFC in neonates.