Medical Issues



Prostacyclin

Prostaglandin is a steroid that is produced naturally in the body of a normally healthy person. It causes blood vessels in the lungs to relax and allow blood to flow through them easily. People with pulmonary hypertension do not produce enough prostaglandin, causing the blood vessels in the lungs to be somewhat constricted. Prostacyclin, also known as epoprostenol, is a synthetic substance that is administered to remedy this deficiency in some PH patients. Prostacyclin therapy was initially used as a bridge to lung transplantation but has emerged as an alternative to transplantation in numerous patients in recent years. Although research continues on other forms of prostacyclin, it is currently available in these forms:

Flolan®

Remodulin®

Ventavis®

Inhaled Tyvaso®



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September 2009 - Page reviewed and updated
  • Latest News
  • November 30, 2009
  • Serious Errors in Prostacyclin Administration Not Uncommon
  • Results of a national telephone survey of pharmacists and nurses at pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) centers, plus an electronic survey sent to clinicians treating patients with PAH, found that errors during infusion of prostacyclin are common, and that such errors can have serious and even fatal consequences. New standards of care and treatment guidelines could go a long way in a hospital setting to improve the current safety record, investigators said here at CHEST 2009: American College of Chest Physicians Annual Meeting.

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  • November 04, 2009
  • Study Finds Life-Threatening Risks from Medication Errors in Hospitals Treating Pulmonary Hypertension Patients
  • Study Finds Life-Threatening Risks from Medication Errors in Hospitals
    Treating Pulmonary Hypertension Patients
    Study reveals wrong dose and other drug administration errors can be
    life-threatening; Researchers present recommendations at CHEST 2009 medical
    conference to address complex medication regimen

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