Iloprost
Pronunciation: (EYE-loe-prost).
- Generic name
- Iloprost
- Brand names
- Ilomedin, Iloprost, Iloprost Injection, Ventavis
- Drug class
- Cardiovascular & Circulatory System
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States
Australia: · Full directory
What Iloprost is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Iloprost works
Iloprost is a synthetic analog of prostacyclin (PGI2), a potent vasodilator and inhibitor of platelet aggregation. It binds to prostacyclin (IP) receptors on vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to increased cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, resulting in vasodilation and inhibition of platelet activation. This mechanism reduces pulmonary vascular resistance and improves exercise capacity in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. (1) (2)
What Iloprost is used for
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH, WHO Group 1)
FDA-approved indication for inhaled iloprost (Ventavis), used to improve exercise capacity and functional class. This is the indication the dosing in this record's how_to_take/professional_information sections applies to.
Critical limb ischemia (CLI) — outside the US, via a different (IV) iloprost formulation
Used in some countries as an intravenous infusion (a different product/route than the inhaled dosing described below); dosing for this indication is not detailed in this record.
Raynaud's phenomenon (severe) — outside the US, via a different (IV) iloprost formulation
Used in some countries as an intravenous infusion when other treatments have failed; dosing for this indication is not detailed in this record.
Thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger's disease) — outside the US, via a different (IV) iloprost formulation
Used in some countries as an intravenous infusion; dosing for this indication is not detailed in this record.
Before taking Iloprost
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to iloprost or any excipients, active bleeding, severe coronary artery disease, decompensated heart failure, or recent cerebrovascular events. (Contraindication)
Tell your clinician about
How to take Iloprost
- General Instructions: Use iloprost exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change your dose or frequency without consulting your healthcare provider.. Adult Dosing: For pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) — the FDA-approved indication for the inhaled form: starting dose 2.5 micrograms per inhalation, increased to 5 micrograms if well tolerated; usual maintenance dose 5 micrograms, 6 to 9 times per day, with at least 2 hours between doses (maximum studied: 45 micrograms/day). The dose may be adjusted based on your response and tolerance. This inhaled dosing is specific to PAH — the other uses listed above (critical limb ischemia, Raynaud's, Buerger's disease) use a different intravenous iloprost formulation with different dosing not covered here.. Pediatric Dosing: Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established. Use in pediatric patients should be guided by a specialist.. Administration: Iloprost (inhaled form) is administered by inhalation using a nebulizer device. Follow the device instructions carefully. Do not mix with other medications in the nebulizer.. When To Stop: Do not stop using iloprost suddenly without consulting your doctor, as symptoms may worsen. Your doctor will advise on how to safely discontinue.. Storage: Store at 68-77°F (20-25°C); brief excursions between 59-86°F (15-30°C) are permitted. Keep away from light and moisture, out of reach of children, and do not freeze.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the next dose to make up for the missed one.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe headache, flushing, low blood pressure, fainting, or increased risk of bleeding. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Headache
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Flushing
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Nausea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Jaw pain
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Hypotension
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Dizziness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Palpitations
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Chest pain
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Fainting or symptoms of very low blood pressure
(2)New or worsening shortness of breath or wheeze (possible bronchospasm)
(2)Signs of unusual bleeding
(1)Serious warnings
Do not start iloprost if systolic blood pressure is below 85 mmHg — serious
Symptoms: Do not start iloprost if systolic blood pressure is below 85 mmHg. May cause low blood pressure (hypotension) and fainting (syncope) more broadly. Increases risk of bleeding, especially if used with anticoagulants. Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment. Not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed. May cause bronchospasm, especially in patients with reactive airway disease (not studied in COPD or severe asthma).
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated.
Contraindications and cautions recorded in the clinician database (the FDA label for the inhaled PAH product does not list a formal contraindications section beyond the systolic BP < 85 mmHg initiation threshold above — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications and cautions recorded in the clinician database (the FDA label for the inhaled PAH product does not list a formal contraindications section beyond the systolic BP < 85 mmHg initiation threshold above; the following reflect general prostacyclin-analogue safety principles and are retained as precautionary guidance): avoid in patients with hypersensitivity to iloprost or any excipients, active bleeding, severe coronary artery disease, decompensated heart failure, or recent cerebrovascular events. Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment, hypotension, or those at increased risk of bleeding.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated.
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Iloprost may interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin or heparin), antiplatelet drugs (such as aspirin or clopidogrel), and other vasodilators, increasing the risk of bleeding or low blood pressure. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Limited published data on iloprost in pregnancy show no clear drug-associated risk, but pulmonary arterial hypertension itself carries significant maternal and fetal risk. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk, and only under close specialist supervision.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding-specific safety data are not established in the sources reviewed for this medicine. Discuss breastfeeding with your healthcare provider before use.
Children
Frequency: Not recommended for pediatric use.. Weight Based: Safety not established in children.. Max Daily Dose: Not recommended for pediatric use.. Max Single Dose: Not recommended for pediatric use.. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment; specific dose-adjustment figures are not established in the sources reviewed. Your prescriber will individualize dosing and monitoring.
Hepatic_impairment
Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment; specific dose-adjustment figures are not established in the sources reviewed. Your prescriber will individualize dosing and monitoring.
Monitoring
Storage
Store at 68-77°F (20-25°C); brief excursions between 59-86°F (15-30°C) are permitted. Keep away from light and moisture, out of reach of children, and do not freeze.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) — inhaled iloprost (Ventavis)
Dose summary: Starting dose 2.5 mcg/inhalation; increase to 5 mcg if well tolerated; maintenance 5 mcg, 6-9 times/day (at least 2 hours apart); maximum studied 45 mcg/day.
Renal context: Use with caution in renal impairment; no specific numeric dose adjustment is established in the sources reviewed. (1) (2)
Frequently asked questions
What is iloprost used for?
Iloprost (inhaled) is FDA-approved to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). A different intravenous iloprost formulation is used in some countries for severe peripheral arterial disease, Raynaud's phenomenon, and Buerger's disease.
How does iloprost work?
Iloprost works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, reducing blood pressure in the lungs and improving blood flow.
How is iloprost administered?
For pulmonary arterial hypertension, iloprost is inhaled using a nebulizer device several times a day. A different intravenous iloprost formulation is used in hospital settings in some countries for other conditions (such as critical limb ischemia); dosing for that route is not covered on this page.
What are the most common side effects?
Common side effects include flushing, headache, cough, jaw pain, nausea, and dizziness.
Can iloprost be used during pregnancy?
Iloprost should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not double up doses.
Are there any foods or drugs to avoid while taking iloprost?
Avoid alcohol and inform your doctor about all medications, especially blood thinners and other vasodilators, as interactions may occur.
What happens if I take too much Iloprost?
Taking too much Iloprost can lead to an exacerbation of its vasodilatory effects, resulting in severe hypotension, flushing, headache, and potentially bradycardia or tachycardia. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention. Prompt medical intervention is crucial to manage these symptoms and prevent serious complications.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Iloprost?
It is generally advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Iloprost. Both Iloprost and alcohol can cause vasodilation, and their combined effect may lead to an increased risk of hypotension, dizziness, and fainting. Discuss your alcohol intake with your healthcare provider to understand the specific risks in your situation.
Is Iloprost safe during pregnancy?
Iloprost's safety during pregnancy is not definitively established, and it falls under a pregnancy category that requires careful consideration. It is crucial to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Your healthcare provider will weigh the potential benefits against the risks to both you and the fetus before prescribing Iloprost.
What is the mechanism of action of Iloprost?
Iloprost is a synthetic analog of prostacyclin (PGI2), a potent vasodilator and inhibitor of platelet aggregation. It binds to prostacyclin (IP) receptors on vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to increased cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, resulting in vasodilation and inhibition of platelet activation. This mechanism reduces pulmonary vascular resistance and improves exercise capacity in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. (1) (2)
What is the generic name of Iloprost?
The generic name is Iloprost. It is sold under brand names including Ilomedin, Iloprost, Iloprost Injection, Ventavis.
What class of drug is Iloprost?
Iloprost is classed as: Cardiovascular & Circulatory System.
References
- Iloprost — MedGuideGlobal clinician recordMedGuideGlobal clinician-authored medicine record (internal database) · null · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 1
- Ventavis (iloprost) Inhalation Solution prescribing informationDrugs.com (sourced from FDA-approved Ventavis label) · United States · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 2
- AURLUMYN (ILOPROST) INJECTION, SOLUTION [BTG INTERNATIONAL INC] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Iloprost Injection — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- AURLUMYN — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA NDA217933)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
- Iloprost — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 40138)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 6
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Iloprost names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- AURLUMYN100 ug/mL · btg international inc