epoprostenol Health Article

How should I use epoprostenol?

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. You may need to use this medication for a period of many years.

Epoprostenol is given through a needle placed into a vein using a computerized, portable infusion pump to control the rate of medication you receive.

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.

You must mix epoprostenol with a liquid (diluent) before using it. Use only the diluent provided with your medication and do not mix epoprostenol with any other medications or liquids.

After mixing epoprostenol with the diluent, the mixture will be good for only 48 hours if kept cold and protected from light.

To use at room temperature: You may store the medicine in the refrigerator for up to 40 hours, then take it out of the refrigerator and use it at room temperature over a period of no longer than 8 hours. Protect the medicine from light.

To use with a cold pouch and frozen gel packs: Store the medicine in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then take it out of the refrigerator and use it with the cold pouch over a period of no longer than 24 hours. Protect the medicine from light. Replace the frozen gel packs every 12 hours.

The epoprostenol and diluent mixture must be protected from light at all times, whether it is in storage or in use. Do not stop using epoprostenol without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. Pulmonary hypertension symptoms may return if you stop using epoprostenol suddenly. This includes dizziness, weakness, and trouble breathing.

Even short breaks in the flow of your medication through the IV can cause the treatment to stop working. To make sure there is no interruption in your treatment, you may need to have a back-up infusion pump in case your first pump fails to work properly. Also keep replacement batteries and extra IV infusion sets on hand at all times. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Store unopened vials of epoprostenol and its diluent at cool room temperature (below 77 degrees F), away from heat, light, and moisture.

Do not freeze the mixed medicine. Throw away any epoprostenol and diluent mixture that has become frozen or if it has changed colors or has any particles in it.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Because this medication is given around the clock, you should not miss a dose if you use the medication properly. Call your doctor right away if your epoprostenol therapy is interrupted for any reason.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, fast heart rate, warmth or tingling, or feeling like you might pass out.