Iloprost Rafarm (Iloprost)

Iloprost acts on the prostacyclin pathway to manage specific vascular conditions.

• Pulmonary arterial hypertension: improves exercise capacity and delays disease progression.
• Digital ulcers associated with systemic sclerosis: promotes ulcer healing and reduces new ulcer formation.
• Pulmonary hypertension (WHO Group 1): helps reduce pulmonary vascular resistance and improve hemodynamics.

• Iloprost is a synthetic prostacyclin (PGI2) analog that selectively activates IP receptors on vascular smooth‑muscle cells. Activation triggers cyclic AMP accumulation, leading to potent vasodilation of pulmonary arteries and inhibition of platelet aggregation, thereby lowering pulmonary arterial pressure and improving tissue perfusion.

Adverse reactions may occur with Iloprost inhalation therapy.

Common Side Effects

• Cough: mild to moderate irritation of the airway.
• Headache: transient, often related to vasodilation.
• Flushing: warm sensation of the skin.
• Nausea: occasional gastrointestinal upset.
• Throat irritation: discomfort during inhalation.
• Dizziness: light‑headed feeling.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hypotension: significant drop in blood pressure.
• Pulmonary edema: fluid accumulation in lungs.
• Bleeding: increased risk of hemorrhage.
• Severe bronchospasm: acute airway constriction.
• Arrhythmia: irregular heart rhythm.
• Chest pain: possible myocardial ischemia.

Careful monitoring and patient education are essential when using Iloprost Rafarm.

• Blood pressure monitoring: check for hypotension before and during therapy.
• Bleeding risk assessment: evaluate concomitant anticoagulant use.
• Respiratory caution: avoid in patients with severe asthma or recent hemoptysis.
• Renal function: adjust use in severe renal impairment.
• Hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions develop.
• Store at room temperature: keep in original container, protect from moisture and light.

Iloprost may interact with several drug classes; interactions vary in severity.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Potent vasodilators (e.g., nitroglycerin): may cause severe hypotension.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increase risk of bleeding.
• Phosphodiesterase‑5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil): potentiate vasodilatory effect.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Calcium channel blockers: may enhance hypotensive response.
• NSAIDs: can affect renal function when combined.
• Inhaled corticosteroids: may increase bronchospasm risk.