REMODULIN Overview
A Different Kind of Therapy
REMODULIN is a medication used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
REMODULIN is a type of medication called a prostacyclin analog. It acts similarly to the prostacyclin that is found naturally in the human body, which helps keep the blood vessels open and working properly. Prostacyclin medications work by opening the blood vessels and may reduce the buildup of cells around the blood vessel walls. For complete prescribing information click here.
Indications
Remodulin is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension in patients with NYHA Class II-IV symptoms to diminish symptoms associated with exercise. It may be administered as a continuous subcutaneous infusion or continuous intravenous infusion; however, because of the risks associated with chronic indwelling central venous catheters, including serious blood stream infections, continuous intravenous infusion should be reserved for patients who are intolerant of the subcutaneous route, or in whom these risks are considered warranted.
Remodulin is indicated to diminish the rate of clinical deterioration in patients requiring transition from Flolan® (epoprostenol sodium) for Injection; the risks and benefits of each drug should be carefully considered prior to transition.
Streamlined Therapy
For patients with PAH with NYHA Class II−IV symptoms:
No Ice Packs
Because it is stable at room temperature, patients who use REMODULIN do not have to use ice packs to keep the drug cold.
Miniature Pump Options
REMODULIN offers a variety of pump size options.
Limited Reservoir Changes
Patients can go up to 72 hours before changing an SC reservoir and up to 48 hours before changing an IV reservoir.
REMODULIN Half-Life
REMODULIN's elimination half-life is approximately 4 hours. Please refer to full prescribing information.
Important Safety Information:
Chronic intravenous infusions of Remodulin are delivered using an indwelling central venous catheter. This route is associated with the risk of blood stream infections (BSI) and sepsis, which may be fatal.
Remodulin is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Remodulin, its ingredients, or similar drugs. Remodulin is a potent vasodilator. It lowers blood pressure, which may be further lowered by other drugs that also reduce blood pressure. Remodulin inhibits platelet aggregation and therefore, may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in patients on anticoagulants. Abrupt withdrawal or sudden large reductions in dosage of Remodulin may result in worsening of PAH symptoms and should be avoided. Caution should be used in patients with hepatic or renal problems. The most common side effects of Remodulin included those related to the method of infusion. For subcutaneous infusion, infusion site pain and infusion site reaction (redness and swelling) occurred in the majority of patients. These symptoms were often severe and could lead to treatment with narcotics or discontinuation of Remodulin. For intravenous infusion, line infections, sepsis, arm swelling, paresthesias, hematoma and pain were most common. General side effects (>5% more than placebo) were diarrhea, jaw pain, vasodilation, and edema.
For complete prescribing information, please refer to the REMODULIN package insert.
References: 1. Laliberte et al; REMODULIN package insert.
REMODULIN is a registered trademark of United Therapeutics Corporation.
