Ventavis

Generic Name: iloprost
Other Brand Names: iloprost

What is iloprost?

Iloprost is an synthetic prostacyclin. It works by opening blood vessels in the lungs.

Iloprost is used as an inhalant to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Iloprost inhalation may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Uses Side Effects Precautions Interactions Overdose
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking iloprost?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have.

  • liver disease;

  • heart disease;

  • kidney disease;

  • low blood pressure;

  • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);

  • asthma; or

  • a chest cold or cough.

You may need a lower dose or special monitoring during therapy with iloprost inhalation.

Iloprost is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether iloprost will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

Iloprost passes into breast milk in small amounts and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take iloprost without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take iloprost?

Use iloprost inhalation exactly as directed by your doctor. Iloprost inhalation should only be used with the Prodose AAD system. Do not use it with other types of nebulizers. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Iloprost inhalation may cause a lowering of blood pressure which can lead to dizziness or fainting. Stand up slowly when getting out of a chair or bed. If you experience fainting or if your dizziness gets worse contact your doctor.

Store iloprost inhalation at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose of iloprost?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

Where can I get more information about iloprost?
Your pharmacist has information about iloprost written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of iloprost?

Serious side effects from iloprost inhalation are not likely to occur. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat, swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to use iloprost inhalation and talk to your doctor if you experience

  • dry mouth, nose, or throat after use;

  • coughing or throat irritation;

  • hoarseness or deepening of the voice;

  • headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness;

  • nausea;

  • flushing; or

  • jaw tightness or pain.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What is the most important information I should know about iloprost?

Use iloprost inhalation exactly as directed by your doctor. Iloprost inhalation should only be used with the Prodose AAD system. Do not use iloprost inhalation with other types of nebulizers. If you do not understand your instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Iloprost inhalation may lower blood pressure which can lead to dizziness or fainting. Stand up slowly when getting out of a chair or bed. If you experience fainting or if your dizziness gets worse contact your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking iloprost?

Avoid items or activities that you know are allergens for you if they make your symptoms worse. Clean areas where dust or pet fur may aggravate your condition.

Do not stop taking iloprost inhalation until your doctor approves. It may be some time before you begin to notice effects from this medication.

What other drugs will affect iloprost?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor and pharmacist about any other drugs you are taking including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

What happens if I have an overdose of iloprost?

An overdose of this medication is not likely to occur. If you do suspect an overdose, call an emergency room or poison control center.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. ('Multum') is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
Content provided by Multum - Last Updated 2/11/2008