Abstract
Two prostacyclins (prostaglandin E1 and prostaglandin I2) are potent vasodilators. Aerosolized prostacyclins reduce pulmonary artery pressure, improve right heart function, and increase arterial oxygenation by improving ventilation/perfusion matching. This report describes aerosolized prostacyclins and compares them to inhaled nitric oxide. I review the types of inhalable prostacyclins and their indications, evidence of efficacy, delivery, and adverse effects.
- aerosol
- prostacyclin
- prostaglandin
- pulmonary hypertension
- ventricular function
- acute respiratory distress syndrome
- ARDS
- inhaled nitric oxide
- nebulizer
Footnotes
- Correspondence: Mark Siobal RRT, Respiratory Care Services, San Francisco General Hospital, NH GA-2, 1001 Potrero Avenue, San Francisco CA 94110. E-mail: msiobal{at}sfghsom.ucsf.edu.
- Copyright © 2004 by Daedalus Enterprises Inc.