Iloprost is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (high blood pressure in the blood vessels leading to the lungs).
This medicine is used to help improve exercise capacity (the ability to carry out physical activity) and symptoms.
Use Iloprost exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as a nebuliser solution that is contained in an ampoule.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on how often you will need to take your medicine.
Iloprost solution is inhaled using a nebuliser. The nebuliser turns the solution into a mist which you breathe in through your mouth.
Make sure you know how to use the specific device you have been given. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you how to use it.
You should use a new ampoule for each inhalation session. Break the glass ampoule and pour the solution into the medication chamber following the instructions for use of the nebuliser.
For the inhalation, you should use a mouthpiece to prevent the solution from coming into contact with your skin.
Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to administer your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- lung disease
- heart disease
- low blood pressure
- conditions that increases the risk of bleeding e.g. active stomach ulcer
as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- long-term lung disease that causes airflow obstruction making it hard to breathe
- severe asthma
- infection of the lungs
- kidney disease
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are taking this medicine, you may need to have regular lung function tests to check your body’s response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
If you smoke, you should try to quit. Smoking is harmful to your blood pressure, heart and overall health. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about ways to stop your smoking habit.
Iloprost may cause dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, drowsiness, fainting or passing out, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain or discomfort, pain of the jaw or the jaw muscle, cough, throat irritation and rash.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for high blood pressure
- heparin (blood-thinning medicine)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Iloprost.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.