Drug lookup
Drug reference

Iloprost

Vasodilator · Pulmonary arterial hypertension agent

Also known as Ventavis, synthetic PGI2

VasodilatorPulmonary arterial hypertension agent
CDSCO approvedSchedule H
EXCRETION
not curated
INTERACTIONS
12 major
SEVERE in our sources
PREGNANCY
C
FDA category + note
Top interactionssee all 12
  • AcalabrutinibSevereDatabaseDDInter
  • ApixabanSevereDatabaseDDInter
  • ArdeparinSevereDatabaseDDInter
  • AvapritinibSevereDatabaseDDInter

Mechanism

Iloprost is a synthetic analog of prostacyclin (PGI2). It acts as a potent vasodilator, particularly in the pulmonary vasculature. Its mechanism of action is similar to prostacyclin, involving agonism of the prostaglandin I receptor (IP receptor), which leads to increased intracellular cyclic AMP and relaxation of vascular smooth muscle.

Indications

Pulmonary arterial hypertensionIdiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)targeting the pulmonary vasculature with less systemic side effectsalternative for epoprostenol in combination therapy for severe PAH (functional class IV)

Dosing

Adult
Intermittent inhalation via nebulization: Start at 2.5 mCg/dose. If tolerated, increase dose to 5 mCg/dose at intervals of 6 to 9 times daily (Q2-3 hr while awake).
Pediatric
Some recommend 1.25 mCg/dose for infant and small child.
Hepatic adjustment
Q3-4 hr may be considered for patients with moderate/severe hepatic impairment.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset
Effects of a single inhalation decline to baseline over 60 to 120 min.
Metabolism
Minor CYP-dependent metabolism

Contraindications

  • Use with caution in bleeding disorders
  • Use with caution in respiratory diseases
  • Use with caution in hypotension

Side effects

Common
Headachenauseacoughflu-like symptomsflushingjaw painhypotensionthroat irritationinsomnia
Serious
  • Bronchospasm
  • hypotension
  • AKI
  • pulmonary edema

Pregnancy & lactation

Pregnancy

C

Drug interactions

Acalabrutinib
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Apixaban
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Ardeparin
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Avapritinib
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Betrixaban
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Cabozantinib
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Dalteparin
Severe
Database

Clinical effect not specified

Source: DDInter

Danaparoid
Severe
Database

Clinical effect not specified

Source: DDInter

Dasatinib
Severe
Database

Clinical effect not specified

Source: DDInter

Deferasirox
Severe
Database

Clinical effect not specified

Source: DDInter

Drotrecogin Alfa
Severe
Database

Clinical effect not specified

Source: DDInter

Edoxaban
Severe
Database

Clinical effect not specified

Source: DDInter

Related guidelines

Other Vasodilator drugs

Ask House about Iloprost

Continue into a citation-backed clinical answer with the drug context already attached.

Sources: Goodman & Gilman 14e, Katzung, BNF, Harriet Lane·Verified: 2026-05-10 · House clinical team