Flolan is a brand name for a medication called epoprostenol, which belongs to a class of drugs called prostaglandins. It is used in the treatment of a condition known as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), which is characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs.
Flolan works by dilating the blood vessels in the lungs, allowing for improved blood flow and reducing the workload on the heart. It specifically targets the small blood vessels in the lungs called pulmonary arteries, helping to lower the blood pressure in these vessels and improve oxygenation.
Flolan is administered through a continuous intravenous infusion, meaning it is delivered into the bloodstream via a small tube inserted into a vein. The dose of Flolan is carefully monitored and adjusted to achieve optimal results in each individual patient. Due to its short half-life, Flolan requires continuous infusion to maintain its effects.
Although Flolan can provide significant benefits for patients with PAH, it may also cause certain side effects. These can include headache, flushing, jaw pain, nausea, low blood pressure, and the risk of infection at the infusion site. Close monitoring is crucial when using Flolan to ensure that any potential complications are identified and promptly addressed.
Overall, Flolan is a medication used to manage pulmonary arterial hypertension by dilating the blood vessels in the lungs, leading to improved blood flow and reduced strain on the heart.
