Our study aimed to review adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with ibuprofen treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in premature neonates.

We retrospectively evaluated electronic patient records from neonates treated with ibuprofen for PDA during 5 years in a French neonatal intensive care unit. Full chart review and targeted triggers were used to detect ADRs. The causality between suspected ADRs and medication was evaluated using the WHO causality assessment method by pharmacovigilance experts. Categorical variables were compared using chi-square tests or Fisher's test. Quantitative variables were compared using the Student t test. We explored the risk factors associated with ADR using univariate model analysis.

Of 227 infants with a mean gestational age (GA) of 27 weeks (24–33), 12 (5%) developed intestinal perforation and seven, necrotizing enterocolitis (3%). The perforation occurred less frequently in infants older than 27 weeks GA (OR=0.14; 95% CI=0.03–0.66, P=0.01). Other observed ADRs were acute renal failure (25 infants, 11%) and thrombocytopenia (five infants, 2%).

Gastrointestinal complications observed in infants treated with ibuprofen for PDA including gastrointestinal perforations occur in less mature infants. Active chart review of the patient's medical file with a trigger tool should be evaluated for routine ADR monitoring.