Flolan (Epoprostenol sodium) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Flolan

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High blood pressure facts

High blood pressure (hypertension) is designated as either essential (primary) hypertension or secondary hypertension and is defined as a consistently elevated blood pressure exceeding 140/90 mm Hg.
High blood pressure is called "the silent killer" because it often causes no symptoms for many years, even decades, until it finally damages certain critical organs.
Poorly controlled high blood pressure ultimately can cause damage to blood vessels in the eye, thickening of the heart muscle and heart attacks, hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis), kidney failure, and strokes.
Most antihypertensive medications can be used alone or in combination. Some are used only in combination. Some are preferred over others in certain specific medical situations. And some are not to be used (contraindicated) in other situations.
Several classes of antihypertensive medications are available, including ACE i...

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Flolan

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Flolan Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Flolan

Generic Name: epoprostenol (Pronunciation: EE poe PROST en ol)

What is epoprostenol (Flolan)?

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 hypertension.

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

What are the possible side effects of epoprostenol (Flolan)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

chest tightness trouble breathing;
fast, slow, or uneven heart rate;
pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding;
nosebleed;
blood in your urine or stools;
coughing up blood; or
feeling like you might pass out.

Less serious side effects may include:

warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin;
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain;
headache or jaw pain;
muscle pain; or
feeling anxious, nervous, or agitated.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to epoprostenol or if you have congestive heart failure.

Before using epoprostenol, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially a bleeding or blood clotting disorder; heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, or any drug allergies.

Also tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Epoprostenol is given through a needle placed into a vein using a computerized, portable infusion pump to control the rate of medication you receive. You may need to use this medication for a period of many years.

Because epoprostenol must be used long-term, it is usually given through a permanent central intravenous (IV) catheter placed into a large vein (such as in your chest).

You will receive your first dose of epoprostenol in a hospital or clinic setting where you can be monitored in case the medication causes serious side effects. You may also need to be monitored if your dose has changed and you are receiving the new dose for the first time.

Before you use epoprostenol at home, your caregivers will teach you how to how to properly mix and store the medication, give the injection, and properly care for your catheter and infusion pump.

Do not stop using epoprostenol without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. Pulmonary hypertension symptoms (dizziness, weakness, and trouble breathing) may return if you stop using epoprostenol suddenly. Even short breaks in your continuous medication schedule can cause the treatment to stop working. Keep your infusion pump working properly and get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

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