Iloprost (IV/Inhaled)
Brand names: Ilomedin, Ventavis
Iloprost is a synthetic prostacyclin analogue given by intravenous infusion or by nebuliser, used in pulmonary arterial hypertension and for severe peripheral ischaemia such as critical limb ischaemia and Raynaud's complications.
ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.
Clinical monograph
How it works
As a prostacyclin (PGI2) analogue it causes potent vasodilatation and inhibits platelet aggregation, improving microcirculatory blood flow.
Prescribing in practice
- It causes marked vasodilatation with hypotension, flushing and headache, so blood pressure must be monitored and the infusion titrated, with inhaled use requiring a dedicated nebuliser system.
- It inhibits platelet function and increases bleeding risk, so use cautiously with anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents.
- Avoid in conditions where its vasodilator and antiplatelet effects are hazardous, such as active bleeding, decompensated heart failure or unstable coronary disease.
Monitoring
Monitor blood pressure and heart rate closely during infusion or inhalation, and watch for syncope, flushing and headache.
Counselling the patient
- Flushing, headache and jaw pain can occur as the infusion or inhalation runs.
- Stand up slowly and report dizziness or fainting.
Evidence & guidelines
Established in pulmonary arterial hypertension and severe peripheral ischaemia through controlled trials and specialist vascular and respiratory guidelines.
Reference: EAU/BSR guidelines; ESOC Raynaud's guidelines; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.