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

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.

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 hypertension.

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

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

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;

• kidney disease;

• liver disease;

• high blood pressure; or

• any drug allergies.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use epoprostenol.

FDA pregnancy category B. Epoprostenol is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. However, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether epoprostenol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.