EPOPROSTENOL
(Prostacyclin, PGI2, Flolan)Standard Prescription
epoprostenol__ ng/kg/min continuous IV infusion
Dosages
Note: doses are in nanograms (1 mcg = 1000 ng)
Pulmonary Hypertension
Dose-finding study (during cardiac catheterization):
Initial: 2 ng/kg/min.Titrate in increments of 2 ng/kg/minute at > 15 min. intervals until dose-limiting pharmacological effects occur (see comments)
Maintenance Continuous Infusion:
Initial: 1-2 ng/kg/min. Infusion rates gradually increase by 2 ng/kg/min over time to maintain clinical response or adverse effects appear.
Maximum dose: 120 ng/kg/min
Mechanism of Action
A prostaglandin that inhibits platelet activation and is an effective vasodilator. Used for treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension.
Forms Supplied
injection: 0.5 mg, 1.5 mg vials plus 50 mL diluent
1 microgram = 1000 nanograms (ng)
Standard Concentration:
10 mcg/mL
1 microgram = 1000 nanograms (ng)
Standard Concentration:
10 mcg/mL
Comments
Used for pulmonary hypertension. Consultation with Pulmonary Hypertension specialist required.
Refer to Parenteral Manual for guidelines.
Adverse effects include hypotension and tachycardia. Dose limiting pharmacological effects include agitation, hypotension, chest pain, dizziness, bradycardia, headache, flushing, nausea, and vomiting.
Bleeding may occur at doses > 20 ng/kg/min due to platelet inhibition.
Abrupt withdrawal (e.g. infusion pump failure) must be avoided as it may result in rebound pulmonary hypertension with dyspnea, dizziness and weakness.
Half life = 2-5 minutes.
Refer to Parenteral Manual for guidelines.
Adverse effects include hypotension and tachycardia. Dose limiting pharmacological effects include agitation, hypotension, chest pain, dizziness, bradycardia, headache, flushing, nausea, and vomiting.
Bleeding may occur at doses > 20 ng/kg/min due to platelet inhibition.
Abrupt withdrawal (e.g. infusion pump failure) must be avoided as it may result in rebound pulmonary hypertension with dyspnea, dizziness and weakness.
Half life = 2-5 minutes.
References
44, 651
Last Edited
2022-06-22 23:54:36