Warnings & Recalls for Ventavis
FDA and Ventavis
In September of 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Ventavis label changes to include warnings of the increased risk for
bronchospasms while using this medication as a treatment. This may result in wheezing and a decreased ability to breathe properly and should be closely monitored.
Ventavis and Pregnancy
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has listed Ventavis as a
pregnancy Category C drug. It has not been confirmed if Ventavis may cause harm to the fetus when taken during pregnancy or if it may pass through breast-milk and harm a nursing baby. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding do not take Ventavis without notifying your doctor.
General Warnings
Ventavis is not safe for all patients and
should not be taken by anyone who is
allergic to iloprost. Let your doctor know if you have:
- liver or kidney disease
- heart disease or any heart disorders
- any breathing disorders including asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- any respiratory infections or problems such as a cough or bronchitis (a chest cold)
- hypotension (low blood pressure)
Tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins and supplements you may be using, especially the following as they may interact with Ventavis:
- medications for regulating blood pressure
- anticoagulants (blood thinners)
- treatments for blood clots
Ventavis Treatment and Use
Ventavis | iloprost inhalant is a prescription synthetic prostacyclin marketed by Actelion for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH, a condition in which blood pressure in the lungs becomes dangerously high).
How Does Ventavis Work?
Ventavis treats pulmonary arterial hypertension by widening blood vessels that had been previously constricted in the lungs. This allows for a reduction of the symptoms of PAH and permits patients to exercise more safely.
How to Take Ventavis
Ventavis is prescribed as an inhalation solution to be taken through an inhaler. Ventavis is generally taken between 6 and 9 times daily depending on the case. Take Ventavis with the I-neb ADD System unless your doctor has instructed you to use a different device. Do not take Ventavis within 2 hours of each dose or take more than prescribed. Follow all packaged instructions on how to use your nebulizer. Do not attempt to reuse single-use bottles. Patients should not use bottles of Ventavis that have solution that contains particles or is discolored.
