Ventavis 20 mcg/mL solution for nebulization

Generic name:
Iloprost solution - inhalation

Pronunciation
(EYE-loe-prost)

Brand name(s)
Ventavis

This medication is used to treat a type of high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension). Iloprost helps to increase your ability to exercise and improves symptoms such as shortness of breath and tiredness. It works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels (arteries) in the lungs and other parts of the body so that blood can flow more easily. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as vasodilators.

Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. This medication comes in a glass bottle (ampule). Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to open the ampule and how to prepare each dose. This product is used with a special breathing device (nebulizer). Ask your doctor, pharmacist or respiratory therapist how to inhale this medication properly with this equipment. Make sure you understand how to properly clean the nebulizer to prevent infections.

Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Do not mix with other medications in the nebulizer.

Inhale this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 6 to 9 times daily, at least 2 hours apart. Do not drink the solution. Do not get this medication on the skin or in your eyes. If this happens, rinse the area with water. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.

To avoid not being able to use your medication, be sure to have access to a backup nebulizer in case your regular device stops working properly.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, jaw pain, muscle spasms of the jaw, flushing, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

• wheezing
• sudden weight gain
• worsening breathing
• chest pain
• fainting

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using iloprost, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• low blood pressure
• bleeding problems
• other breathing problems (such as asthma)

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe dizziness, fainting.

Do not share this medication with others.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, liver function) may be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.