epoprostenol - injection, Flolan
GENERIC NAME: EPOPROSTENOL - INJECTION (E-poe-PROST-en-ol)
BRAND NAME(S): Flolan
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension). It helps to increase your ability to exercise and improve symptoms such as shortness of breath and tiredness. It works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels (arteries) in the lungs and other parts of the body so that blood can flow more easily. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as vasodilators.
HOW TO USE: When you first start using this medication, it must be given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic. This medication is given as a continuous injection into the vein using an infusion pump, or as directed by your doctor.Follow all instructions from your health care professional about how to properly use and prepare this medication and the infusion pump. Learn how to properly care for your injection site and how to avoid infection. Also learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid, and contact your health care professional immediately. If you have any questions about the use of this medication or the infusion pump, consult your health care professional.Do not suddenly decrease the dose or suddenly stop using this medication because doing either may lead to serious (rarely fatal) worsening of your condition. If you must stop this medication, gradually reduce the dose as directed by your doctor. Consult your doctor immediately if your infusion is interrupted or if you develop worsening trouble breathing, dizziness, or weakness. To avoid interruptions in drug treatment, you should have a backup infusion pump and infusion sets available in case your equipment fails. Consult your health care professional for more information.The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. Your doctor may also direct you to use additional medications to treat your condition and prevent problems. Use all prescribed medications exactly as directed.Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, flushing, abdominal pain, jaw pain, muscle pain, or pain/redness/swelling at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (such as anxiety, nervousness, confusion), signs of infection (such as fever, chills), numb/tingling skin, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, vision changes, chest pain, unusual bruising/bleeding.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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