Flolan is a type of drug known as a prostaglandin, and is used to treat Primary Pulmonary Hypertension. Flolan works by relaxing blood vessels in the lungs and allowing the lungs and heart to achieve more normal levels of function. There are a number of important aspects involved in the safe use of Flolan for PPH treatment.



Before taking Flolan

Flolan should not be used by people who are allergic to any of the ingredients in the drug, or by anyone with severe congestive heart failure. If you have either of these conditions your doctor must be informed when you are discussing PPH treatment options.

Additionally, you should inform your doctor if you are pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant while taking Flolan. Any allergies you have to foods and other substances as well as medications, and any prescription or over-the-counter medicines you are taking should be discussed prior to starting Flolan treatment.

Flolan and Drug Interactions

Another important aspect of Flolan treatment is the way in which the drug interacts with an extensive variety and range of prescription and over-the-counter medications. These include such commonly-used drugs as Aspirin and Tylenol, as well as more specialized over-the-counter treatments such as Rogaine.

Some of these drug interactions can reduce the effectiveness of the Flolan treatment, and other interactions may produce severe side effects. It is vital that you inform your doctor if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications prior to being treated with Flolan. Additionally, you should consult with your doctor before taking any medications while you are using Flolan.

Side Effects of Flolan Treatment

Flolan has numerous minor side effects including feelings of anxiety, pain in muscles or bones as well as in the stomach, back or jaw, headaches, dizziness or nausea, and vomiting. More serious side effects include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and unexplained bruising or bleeding. If you experience any of these side effects while taking Flolan, it's important to consult your doctor as soon as possible. Even minor side effects should be reported, as your doctor may want to adjust your Flolan dosage.

Overdoses

Because Flolan is administered intravenously it is usually handled, stored and administered by a trained medical professional. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to use Flolan at home and administer it yourself. Any Flolan at home should be safely stored away from children and pets, and Flolan should be used in accordance with your doctor's advice.

Symptoms of a Flolan overdose include headaches, lightheadedness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rapid heart rate. If you suspect a Flolan overdose, contact your local medical emergency facility immediately.

Staying Safe while Using Flolan

Flolan can cause dizziness, and this effect can be increased if you drink alcohol, or if you take certain medications in addition to Flolan. For this reason, it is safer to avoid driving or performing other activities which may be hazardous, until you know how your body will react to the drug. The side effects of Flolan treatment differ between individuals, and you may react more or less severely depending on your unique circumstances.

The effects of Flolan on pregnancy and breast-feeding are not yet established. If you are pregnant prior to being treated with Flolan your doctor may discuss alternative treatments. If you wish to become pregnant while you are already taking Flolan, they may want to reduce your dosage or change your treatment plan while you are pregnant. Your doctor may even suggest that it would be safer if you change your pregnancy plans.

In all situations, if you are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding while taking Flolan or prior to being treated with Flolan, discuss your situation with your doctor to make sure both you and your baby remain safe.

Flolan may cause severe withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking the drug. These effects include shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, weakness, and dizziness. Any withdrawal from Flolan treatment should only be done on medical advice, your doctor may want to slowly reduce your dosage rather than stopping it altogether. If you miss one or more doses of Flolan for any reason, contact your doctor as a safety measure.

The most important aspect of safe use of Flolan is staying in regular contact with your doctor. Inform them of any side effects, and consult them before taking any medications in addition to Flolan. Please note that this article should not be considered a substitute for expert medical advice. If you are in doubt about any aspects of your PPH treatment it is always best to consult your doctor or another medical professional for further advice.