24th September 2021

A newborn presents with significant cyanosis at birth and symptoms of heart failure such as dyspnoea (3)

A newborn presents with significant cyanosis at birth and symptoms of heart failure such as dyspnoea. On auscultation of the heart, he has an ejection systolic murmur at the left sternal edge with a loud S2. He undergoes an echocardiogram which confirms a diagnosis of persistent truncus arteriosus. In light of this newborn’s heart failure, what medication can be prescribed that works by slowing down the heart rate and strengthening cardiac contractility?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.