Monograph Details
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Cardiovascular System
> Pulmonary hypertension
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FLOLAN |
| Manufacturer |
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GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals |
| Legal Classification |
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Rx
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| Pharmacological Class |
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Prostaglandin. |
| Generic Name |
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Epoprostenol (as sodium) 0.5mg, 1.5mg; per vial; pwd for IV infusion after reconstitution. |
| Indications |
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Primary pulmonary hypertension. Pulmonary hypertension due to scleroderma disease. |
| Children |
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Not recommended. |
| Adults |
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Give by continuous chronic IV infusion through a central venous catheter. Initially 2 nanograms/kg per min; increase in increments of 2 nanograms/kg per min at ≥15 minute intervals until response achieved or tolerance develops. Dose adjustments: see literature. |
| Contraindications |
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Chronic use with CHF due to severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Pulmonary edema. |
| Precautions |
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Avoid abrupt withdrawal or large dose reductions (may cause rebound pulmonary hypertension). Bleeding risks. Start anticoagulant therapy, unless contraindicated. Monitor BP and heart rate for several hours after dose changes. Pregnancy (Cat.B). Labor & delivery. Nursing mothers. |
| Interactions |
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Potentiated hypotensive effects with diuretics, antihypertensive agents, other vasodilators. Potentiates anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents. May potentiate digoxin (monitor). |
| Adverse Reactions |
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Headache, jaw pain, flushing, GI upset, flu-like symptoms, anxiety, dizziness, tachycardia, myalgia. |
| How Supplied |
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Vials—1 (w. diluent) |
| Additional Resources |
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• Related Prescribing Note |
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