epoprostenol

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

What is epoprostenol?

Epoprostenol is a prostaglandin (a hormone-like substance that occurs naturally in the body). Prostaglandins help to control functions in the body such as blood pressure and muscle contractions.

Epoprostenol is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and improve your ability to exercise.

Epoprostenol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using epoprostenol?

• fluid in your lungs (pulmonary edema); or
• congestive heart failure caused by a decrease in your heart's ability to pump blood back into the body.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had breathing problems while using epoprostenol.

How should I use epoprostenol?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed. You may need to use this medicine for many years.

Epoprostenol is injected with an infusion pump, usually through a permanent central intravenous (IV) catheter placed into a large vein such as in your chest. A healthcare provider will give your first dose and may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine, which may be different for different brands of epoprostenol. Do not use epoprostenol if you don't understand all instructions for proper use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.

Prepare your injection only when you are ready to give it. Do not use if the medicine has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

You should not stop using epoprostenol suddenly, even if you feel fine. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.

To make sure there is no interruption in your treatment, you may need to have a back-up infusion pump, replacement batteries, and extra IV infusion sets. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

After mixing your medicine, you will need to use it within a certain number of hours or days. This will depend on the concentration of the mixture, the diluent used, and whether you store the mixture at room temperature or in a refrigerator. Carefully follow the mixing and storage instructions provided with your medicine. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions.

Use a needle and syringe only once and then place them in a puncture-proof "sharps" container. Follow state or local laws about how to dispose of this container. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

What happens if I miss a dose?

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while using epoprostenol?

Avoid using any infusion pump that has not been approved for use by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of epoprostenol?

• shortness of breath with dizziness or weakness;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• easy bruising, unusual bleeding; or
• symptoms of pulmonary edema --anxiety, sweating, pale skin, severe shortness of breath, wheezing, gasping for breath, cough with foamy mucus, chest pain, fast or uneven heart rate.

Common side effects may include:

• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• dizziness;
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain;
• trouble breathing;
• headache, jaw pain;
• fast or slow heartbeats;
• joint or muscle pain;
• flu-like symptoms; or
• feeling anxious or nervous.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect epoprostenol?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• a diuretic or "water pill";
• blood pressure medications; or
• a blood thinner --warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect epoprostenol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about epoprostenol.