NAME Trade Name Generic Name
Flolan Epoprostenol
USE For the treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension
ACTION Helps lower the pressure in the pulmonary arteries (the blood vessels within the lungs) and the systemic circulation by dilating the vessels.
ADMINISTRATION Flolan is administered by continuous IV (intravenous)
infusion through a permanent indwelling catheter which may be placed into your chest by a surgeon while you are in the hospital. The catheter is attached to a portable infusion pump, which is designed for IV drug delivery.
SIDE EFFECTS Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Most patients experience no or minor side effects. Possible side effects include:
- Jaw pain (when eating)
-
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea/vomiting
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Chest pain
- Skin rash
- Anxiety/nervousness
GUIDELINES FOR TAKING THIS MEDICATION
- Do not change your dose without talking with
your doctor.
- You must always have 2 extra weeks of
medication and supplies stored in your home.
- Flolan should only be used during pregnancy if directed
by your doctor.
- Flolan has the potential to increase the risk of bleeding
particularly among patients maintained on blood
thinners.
- It is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about
all of the medications that you are taking to ensure that
none of your medications interact with Flolan.
- It is very important to avoid any interruption in therapy in
Flolan as this may cause a rebound increase in pulmonary pressure
- call your doctor immediately if the medication is unexpectedly
interrupted for any reason.