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Pharmacy Guide

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Iloprost 10 micrograms/ml nebuliser solution Zentiva

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Iloprost trometamol may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Iloprost trometamol
Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for What Iloprost is The active substance of Iloprost 10 microgram/ml nebuliser solution is iloprost. It imitates a natural substance in the body called prostacyclin. Iloprost inhibits unwanted blocking or narrowing of blood vessels and allows more blood to flow through the vessels. What Iloprost is used for Iloprost is used to treat moderate cases of primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) in adult patients. PPH is a category of pulmonary hypertension where the cause of the high blood pressure is not known. This is a condition where blood pressure is too high in the blood vessels between the heart and the lungs. Iloprost is used to improve exercise capacity (the ability to carry out physical activity) and symptoms. How Iloprost works Breathing in the mist carries Iloprost to the lungs, where it can work most effectively in the artery between heart and lungs. Improved blood flow leads to a better supply of oxygen to the body and reduced strain on the heart.

What you need to know before you take it

e Iloprost Do not use Iloprost

  • if you are allergic to iloprost or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6).
  • if you are at risk of bleeding – for example, if you have an active ulcer of the stomach or of the first part of the small intestine (duodenal ulcers), if you have suffered a physical injury (trauma), if you are at risk of bleeding within the skull.
  • if you have a heart problem, such as:
  • Poor blood flow to the heart muscles (severe coronary heart disease or unstable angina). Symptoms can include chest pain.
  • A heart attack within the last six months.
  • A weak heart (decompensated cardiac failure) which is not under close medical observation.
  • Severe unstable heartbeat.
  • A defect of the heart valves (inborn or acquired) that causes the heart to work poorly (not related to pulmonary hypertension).
  • if you have had a stroke within the last 3 months, or any other occurrence that reduced the blood supply to the brain (e.g. transient ischaemic attack).
  • if your pulmonary hypertension is due to a blocked or narrowed vein (venous occlusive disease).

Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse before using Iloprost:

  • Inhaling Iloprost might trigger breathing difficulties (see section 4), especially in patients with bronchospasm (sudden constriction of the muscles in the walls of the small airways) and wheezing. Tell your doctor if you have a lung infection, severe asthma, or chronic lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Your doctor will monitor you closely.
  • Your blood pressure will be checked before treatment and if it is too low (less than 85 mmHg for the upper value) then therapy with Iloprost should not be started.
  • In general, you will need to take special care to try and avoid effects of low blood pressure, such as fainting and dizziness: − Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medication because the combined effect with Iloprost may lower your blood pressure further (see below "Other medicines and Iloprost"). − Stand up slowly when you get out of chairs or bed. − If you tend to faint as soon as you get out of bed, it may be helpful to take your first dose of the day while you are still lying down. − If you tend to experience fainting episodes, avoid any exceptional straining, for example during physical exertion; it might be useful to inhale Iloprost before. Fainting episodes may be due to the underlying disease. Tell your doctor if they get worse. He/she may consider adjusting your dose or changing your treatment.
  • If you suffer from a weak heart condition such as right heart failure, and feel that your disease is worsening, tell your doctor. Symptoms can include swelling of feet and ankles, shortness of breath, palpitations, urinating more frequently at night or oedema. Your doctor will consider changing your treatment.
  • If you experience difficulty breathing, cough up blood, and/or sweat excessively these may be signs that you have water in the lungs (lung oedema). Stop using Iloprost and tell your doctor immediately. He/she will look for the cause and take appropriate measures.
  • If you have liver problems or very severe kidney problems, requiring dialysis, tell your doctor. You may be gradually introduced to the prescribed dose or be prescribed a lower dose of Iloprost than for other patients (see section 3. "How to use Iloprost"). Contact of Iloprost with skin or swallowing Iloprost
  • Do NOT let Iloprost solution come into contact with your skin or eyes. If it does, rinse the skin or your eyes immediately with plenty of water.
  • Do NOT drink or swallow Iloprost solution. If you swallow it accidentally, drink plenty of water and tell your doctor. Children and adolescents The safety and efficacy of iloprost in children aged up to 18 years have not been established. Other medicines and Iloprost Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are using, have recently used or might use any other medicines. Iloprost and certain other medicines may affect each other in the way they work in your body. Tell your doctor if you are taking:
  • Medicines used to treat high blood pressure or heart disease, such as:
  • Beta blockers.
  • Nitro-vasodilators.
  • ACE inhibitors. Your blood pressure may drop much further. Your doctor may change the dosage.
  • Medicines that thin the blood or inhibit blood clotting, this includes
  • Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA – a compound found in many medicines that lower fever and relieve pain).
  • Heparin.
  • Coumarin-type anticoagulants, such as warfarin or phenprocoumon.

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  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors such as pentoxifylline.
  • Selective phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE 3) inhibitors, such as cilostazol or anagrelide.
  • Ticlopidine;
  • Clopidogrel.
  • Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa antagonists, such as:
  • Abciximab.
  • Eptifibatide.
  • Tirofiban.
  • Defibrotide. Your doctor will monitor you carefully. Before taking any medicine ask your doctor or pharmacist, who has more information on medicines to be careful with or avoid when using Iloprost. Iloprost with food and drink Food or drink is not expected to affect Iloprost. However, you should avoid taking food or drink during inhalation. Pregnancy
  • If you suffer from pulmonary hypertension, avoid getting pregnant as pregnancy may lead to a worsening of your condition and may even endanger your life.
  • If you could get pregnant, use reliable contraception from the time you start treatment and during treatment.
  • If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, tell your doctor straight away. Iloprost should only be used during pregnancy if your doctor decides that the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to you and the foetus. Breast-feeding It is not known whether Iloprost passes into human milk. A potential risk to the breast-feeding child cannot be excluded and it is preferable to avoid breastfeeding during iloprost therapy. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine. Newborns, infants and pregnant women should not be in the same room while you are inhaling Iloprost. Driving and using machines Iloprost lowers blood pressure and may cause dizziness or light-headedness in some people. Do not drive or operate any tools or machines if you feel these effects. Iloprost contains ethanol This medicine contains 0.78 mg of alcohol (ethanol) in each ampoule which is equivalent to 0.81 mg 96% ethanol (v/v). The amount in 1 ml of this medicine is equivalent to less than 1 ml beer or 1 ml wine. The small amount of alcohol in this medicinal product will not have any noticeable effects.

of pulmonary hypertension. How much to inhale and for how long Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor if you are not sure. The dose of Iloprost and the duration of treatment that is right for you depend on your individual condition. Your doctor will advise you. Do not change the recommended dose without consulting your doctor first. Different nebuliser devices can be used to administer Iloprost. Depending on the type of device used and dose prescribed, 1 ml or 2 ml of iloprost are appropriate. Breelib nebuliser If you are starting Iloprost treatment or if you switch from an alternative device your first inhalation will be with Iloprost 10 microgram/ml. If you tolerate this dose well, your next dose should be increased using another available presentation on the market containing 20 microgram/ml of iloprost. You should continue on this dose. If you cannot tolerate inhalation of this higher dose talk to your doctor who may decide that you should take Iloprost 10 microgram/ml. Most people will have 6 to 9 inhalation sessions spread throughout the day. One inhalation session with Breelib will usually last about 3 minutes. Your doctor will supervise your treatment when you start using the Breelib nebuliser to ensure that you tolerate the dose and speed of inhalation well. I-Neb AAD nebuliser In general, when starting Iloprost treatment the first inhaled dose should be 2.5 microgram iloprost as delivered at the mouthpiece. If you tolerate this dose well, your dose should be increased to 5 microgram iloprost and you should continue on this dose. If you are unable to tolerate the 5 microgram dose, the dose should be reduced to 2.5 microgram. Most people will have 6 to 9 inhalation sessions spread throughout the day. One inhalation session will usually last about 4 to 10 minutes with I-Neb AAD depending on the prescribed dose. Venta-Neb nebuliser (2 ampoules of Iloprost) In general, when starting Iloprost treatment the first inhaled dose should be 2.5 microgram iloprost as delivered at the mouthpiece. If you tolerate this dose well, your dose should be increased to 5 microgram and you should continue on this dose. If you are unable to tolerate the 5 microgram dose, the dose should be reduced to 2.5 microgram. Most people will have 6 to 9 inhalation sessions spread throughout the day. One inhalation session with Venta-Neb

How to take it

Iloprost will usually last about 4 to 10 minutes depending on the prescribed dose. Iloprost therapy should only be initiated Depending on your individual needs, Iloprost by a physician experienced in treatment can be used for long term treatment. -2-

The following information is intended for healthcare professionals only: Instructions for use and handling Patients stabilised on one nebuliser should not switch to another nebuliser without close supervision by the treating doctor as different nebulisers have been shown to produce aerosols with slightly different physical characteristics and may have faster delivery of the solution (see section 5.2 of the Summary of Product Characteristics). To minimise accidental exposure, it is recommended to keep the room well ventilated. Breelib When using the Breelib nebuliser please follow the instructions for use provided with the device. Fill the medication chamber with Iloprost immediately before use. Dose of Estimated Drug Device product Iloprost at inhalation mouthpiece time Breelib Iloprost 10 mcg/ml 2.5 mcg

3 minutes

I-Neb AAD The I-Neb AAD System is a portable, hand-held, vibrating mesh technology nebuliser system. This system generates droplets by ultrasound, which forces the solution through a mesh. The I-Neb AAD nebuliser has also been shown to be suitable for the administration of iloprost 10 mcg/ml. The measured MMAD of the aerosol droplets was 2.1 micrometres. This nebuliser monitors the breathing pattern to determine the aerosol pulse time required to deliver the pre-set dose of 2.5 or 5 microgram iloprost. The dose delivered by the I-Neb AAD system is controlled by the medication chamber in combination with a control disc. Each medication chamber is colour coded and has a corresponding colour coded control disc:

  • For the 2.5 microgram dose the medication chamber with the red latch is used together with the red control disc.
  • For the 5 microgram dose the medication chamber with the purple coloured latch is used together with the purple control disc.

If you have kidney or liver problems There is no need to alter the dose in patients with mild or moderate kidney problems (patients with a creatinine clearance >30 ml/min). If you have very severe kidney problems and require dialysis or if you have liver problems, your doctor will introduce you to Iloprost gradually and possibly prescribe fewer daily inhalations. Start therapy by inhaling 2.5 microgram iloprost using 1 ml ampoule of Iloprost. Use dosing intervals of 3 – 4 hours (this corresponds to a maximum of 6 administrations per day). Thereafter, your doctor may cautiously shorten the dosing intervals depending on how you tolerate the treatment. If your doctor decides to further increase the dose up to 5 microgram, again dosing intervals of 3 – 4 hours should be chosen initially and shortened depending on how you tolerate the treatment. If you feel that the effect of Iloprost is too strong or too weak, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Ask your doctor to have someone help you become thoroughly familiar with the use of the nebuliser. You should not switch to another nebuliser without consulting the doctor who is treating you. How to inhale For each inhalation session you should use a new ampoule of Iloprost. Just before you start to inhale, break the glass ampoule and pour the solution into the medication chamber following the instructions for use of the nebuliser. Follow carefully the instructions that come with the nebuliser especially the instructions on hygiene and cleaning of the nebuliser. Always take Iloprost exactly as your doctor has told you.

  • Iloprost nebuliser solution is inhaled using the nebulisers your doctor prescribed (either the Breelib, the Venta-Neb or the I-Neb AAD system).
  • The nebuliser turns Iloprost solution into a mist which you breathe in through your mouth.
  • For the inhalation you should use a mouthpiece to prevent Iloprost coming into contact with your skin. Do not use a facial mask.
  • Follow carefully any instructions that come with the nebuliser. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
  • Any Iloprost solution remaining in the nebuliser after inhalation must be thrown away (see section 5). Room ventilation Be sure to ventilate or air the room in which you have taken your Iloprost treatment. Other people might accidentally be exposed to Iloprost through the room air. In particular, newborns, infants and pregnant women should not be in the same room while you are inhaling Iloprost. Breelib Fill the medication chamber with Iloprost immediately before use. For filling please follow the instructions for use of the nebuliser. Dose of Estimated Drug Iloprost at inhalation Device product mouthpiece time Breelib Iloprost 2.5 mcg 3 minutes 10 mcg/ml I-Neb AAD 1. Just before you start to inhale, break the glass ampoule containing 1 ml solution and pour the complete contents into the nebuliser medication chamber. 2. The pre-set dose provided by the I-Neb AAD system is controlled by the medication chamber in combination with a control disc. There are two different colour coded medication chambers. For each medication chamber there is a corresponding colour coded control disc:
  • For the 2.5 microgram dose the medication chamber with the red coloured latch is used together with the red control disc.
  • For the 5 microgram dose the medication chamber with the purple coloured latch is used together with the purple control disc.

3. In order to ensure that you receive the prescribed dose, check the colour of the medication chamber and the colour of the control disc. They should both have the same colour, either red for the 2.5 microgram dose or purple for the 5 microgram dose. Device Dose of Estimated Iloprost at inhalation mouthpiece time I-Neb 2.5 microgram 3.2 min AAD 5 microgram 6.5 min The table below provides a summary of the user instructions of the I-Neb: Drug Dosage I-Neb AAD products Medication Control chamber disc latch Iloprost10 2.5 mcg red red mcg/ml 5 mcg purple purple Venta-Neb 1. Just before you start to inhale, break the glass of 2 ampoules containing 1 ml solution and pour the complete contents into the nebuliser medication chamber. 2. Two programmes can be operated. 3. Your doctor will adjust Venta-Neb to the programme you need to receive the dose prescribed for you.

  • P1 Programme 1: 5 microgram active substance on the mouth piece 25 inhalation cycles.
  • P2 Programme 2: 2.5 microgram active substance on the mouth piece 10 inhalation cycles. 4. You should use the green baffle plate to obtain the optimal droplet size for the administration of Iloprost. Device Dose of Estimated Iloprost at inhalation mouthpiece time Venta2.5 microgram 4 min Neb 5 microgram 8 min For further details please refer to the instruction manual of the nebuliser device or ask your doctor. If you use more Iloprost than you should Using more Iloprost than you should may lead to dizziness, headache, flushing (reddening of the face), nausea (feeling sick), jaw pain or back pain. You may also experience a decrease or an increase in blood pressure, bradycardia (reduced heart rate), tachycardia (increased heart rate), vomiting, diarrhoea or limb pain. If any of these happen when you have used more Iloprost than you should.
  • Stop the inhalation session.
  • Talk to your doctor. Your doctor will monitor you and treat any resulting symptoms. A specific antidote is not known. If you forget to use Iloprost Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. Please ask your doctor what you should do. If you stop using Iloprost If you stop or wish to stop treatment, discuss it with your doctor first. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. 4. Possible side effects Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The following serious side effects may occur. In this case talk to your doctor immediately. Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):
  • Bleeding events (mostly nosebleed (epistaxis) and coughing up blood (haemoptysis)) may very commonly occur, especially if you are also taking blood-thinning medicines (anticoagulants). The risk of bleeding may be increased in patients when inhibitors of platelet aggregation or anticoagulants are given at the same time (see also section 2). Very rarely, fatal cases including bleeding in the brain (cerebral and intracranial haemorrhage) have been reported.

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Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): Do not use this medicine after the expiry

  • Fainting (syncope) is a symptom of the date which is stated on the label and illness itself but can also occur during on the carton after EXP. The expiry date treatment with iloprost (see also section refers to the last day of that month. 2 "Warnings and precautions", for advice This medicine does not require any on what you can do to avoid this). special storage conditions. Do not freeze.
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension). Any Iloprost solution remaining in Not known (frequency cannot be the nebuliser after inhalation must be estimated from the available data): thrown away.
  • Bronchospasm (sudden constriction Do not throw away any medicines via of the muscles in the walls of the small airways) and wheezing (see also section wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines 2 "Warnings and precautions"). you no longer use. These measures will Below we list other possible side effects help protect the environment. by how likely they are: Very common (may affect more than 1 in 6. Contents of the pack and other 10 people): information
  • Widening of the blood vessels (vasodilatation). Symptoms can be What Iloprost contains flushing or reddening of the face.
  • The active substance is iloprost.
  • Chest discomfort / chest pain. Each ampoule with 1 ml contains
  • Coughing. 10 microgram iloprost (as iloprost
  • Headache. trometamol).
  • Nausea.
  • The other ingredients are trometamol,
  • Pain in jaw/spasm of the jaw muscles ethanol 96%, sodium chloride, (trismus). hydrochloric acid for pH adjustment,
  • Swelling of the limbs (peripheral oedema). and water for injection. Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): What Iloprost looks like and contents
  • Breathing difficulties (dyspnoea). of the pack
  • Dizziness.
  • Vomiting. Iloprost is a clear and colourless solution
  • Diarrhoea. free of visible particles for inhalation with
  • Pain when swallowing (pharyngolaryngeal the Breelib, the I-Neb or the Venta-Neb irritation). nebuliser.
  • Throat irritation. Iloprost is provided in a clear glass
  • Mouth and tongue irritation including pain. ampoule (hydrolytic class No. I) with
  • Rash. identifying colour ring-blue, containing
  • Fast heartbeat (tachycardia). 1.0 ml of solution, packed in blisters in a
  • Awareness of fast or hard heartbeat paper box. (palpitations). Iloprost is available in packs containing: Not known (frequency cannot be 10 × 1 ml (2 blisters with 5 ampoules) estimated from the available data): 30 × 1 ml (6 blisters with 5 ampoules or
  • Reduction in the number of blood 5 blisters with 6 ampolues) platelets (thrombocytopenia). 40 × 1 ml (8 blisters with 5 ampoules)
  • Hypersensitivity (i.e. allergy). 42 × 1 ml (8 blisters with 5 ampoules and
  • Disturbed sense of taste (dysgeusia). 1 blister with 2 ampoules or 7 blisters with Other possible effects 6 ampoules)
  • Swelling, mainly of the ankles and 168 × 1 ml (33 blisters with 5 ampoules legs, due to fluid retention (peripheral and 1 blister with 3 ampoules or oedema) is a very common symptom 28 blisters with 6 ampoules of the illness itself but can also occur Multipacks containing 160 ampoules during treatment with Iloprost. (4 inner boxes containing 8 blisters with 5 ampoules) Reporting of side effects Not all pack sizes may be marketed. If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any Marketing Authorisation Holder

Possible side effects

not listed in this Zentiva Pharma UK Limited, leaflet. You can also report side effects 12 New Fetter Lane, London, EC4A 1JP, directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: United Kingdom www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search Manufacturer for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play Zentiva, k.s., or Apple App Store. U kabelovny 130, Dolní Měcholupy, By reporting side effects you can help 102 37, Prague 10, Czech Republic provide more information on the safety of This leaflet was last revised in this medicine. December 2022

How to store it

Iloprost Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

ZV/698 42

-4For each inhalation session with the I-Neb AAD, the content of one 1 ml ampoule of iloprost is transferred into the medication chamber immediately before use. Device Dose of iloprost Estimated at mouthpiece inhalation time I-Neb 2.5 microgram 3.2 min AAD 5 microgram 6.5 min The table below provides a summary of the user instructions of the I-Neb for iloprost: Drug Dosage I-Neb AAD product Medication Control chamber disc latch Iloprost 2.5 red red 10 mcg/ml microgram 5 purple purple microgram Venta-Neb Venta-Neb, a portable ultrasonic batterypowered nebuliser, has also been shown to be suitable for the administration of iloprost 10 mcg/ml. The measured MMAD of the aerosol droplets was 2.6 micrometres. For each inhalation session, the content of two ampoules containing 1 ml of iloprost 10 mcg/ml. nebuliser solution is transferred into the

nebuliser medication chamber immediately before use. Two programmes can be operated:

  • P1 Programme 1: 5 microgram active substance on the mouth piece 25 inhalation cycles.
  • P2 Programme 2: 2.5 microgram active substance on the mouth piece 10 inhalation cycles. The selection of the pre-set programme is made by the doctor. Venta-Neb prompts the patient to inhale by an optical and an acoustic signal. It stops after the pre-set dose has been administered. To obtain the optimal droplet size for the administration of iloprost the green baffle plate should be used. For details refer to the instruction manual of the Venta-Neb nebuliser. Device Dose of iloprost Estimated at mouthpiece inhalation time Venta- 2.5 microgram 4 min Neb 5 microgram 8 min The efficacy and tolerability of inhaled iloprost when administered with other nebulising systems, which provide different nebulisation characteristics of iloprost solution, have not been established. ZV/698 42

Frequently asked questions about Iloprost 10 micrograms/ml nebuliser solution Zentiva

How do I take Iloprost 10 micrograms/ml nebuliser solution Zentiva?

Iloprost 10 micrograms/ml nebuliser solution Zentiva comes as inhaler containing 10micrograms/ml. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Iloprost 10 micrograms/ml nebuliser solution Zentiva?

The active substance in Iloprost 10 micrograms/ml nebuliser solution Zentiva is iloprost trometamol.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Iloprost 10 micrograms/ml nebuliser solution Zentiva, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Iloprost 10 micrograms/ml nebuliser solution Zentiva without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Iloprost trometamol (7 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Treatment of adult patients with primary pulmonary hypertension, classified as NYHA functional class III, to improve exercise capacity and symptoms.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Drug product

Suitable inhalation device (nebuliser) to be used

Iloprost

Breelib

I-Neb AAD

Venta-Neb

Iloprost should only be initiated and monitored by a physician experienced in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.

Posology

Dose per inhalation session

At initiation of iloprost treatment the first inhaled dose should be 2.5 microgram iloprost as delivered at the mouthpiece of the nebuliser. If this dose is well tolerated, dosing should be increased to 5 microgram iloprost and maintained at that dose. In case of poor tolerability of the 5 microgram dose, the dose should be reduced to 2.5 microgram iloprost.

Daily dose

The dose per inhalation session should be administered 6 - 9 times per day according to the individual need and tolerability.

Duration of treatment

The duration of treatment depends on clinical status and is left to the physician's discretion. Should patients deteriorate on this treatment intravenous prostacyclin treatment should be considered.

Special populations

Hepatic impairment

Iloprost elimination is reduced in patients with hepatic dysfunction (see section 5.2).

To avoid undesired accumulation over the day, special caution has to be exercised with these patients during initial dose titration. Initially, doses of 2.5 microgram iloprost should be administered using iloprost 10 microgram/ml with dosing intervals of 3-4 hours (corresponds to administration of max. 6 times per day). Thereafter, dosing intervals may be shortened cautiously based on individual tolerability. If a dose up to 5 microgram iloprost is indicated, again dosing intervals of 3-4 hours should be chosen initially and shortened according to individual tolerability. An accumulation of iloprost following treatment over several days is not likely due to the overnight break in administration of the medicinal product.

Renal impairment

There is no need for dose adaptation in patients with a creatinine clearance >30 ml/min (as determined from serum creatinine using the Cockroft and Gault formula). Patients with a creatinine clearance of ≤30 ml/min were not investigated in the clinical trials. Data with intravenously administered iloprost indicated that the elimination is reduced in patients with renal failure requiring dialysis. Therefore, the same dosing recommendations as in patients with hepatic impairment (see above) are to be applied.

Paediatric population

The safety and efficacy of iloprost in children aged up to 18 years have not been established.

No data from controlled clinical trials are available.

Method of administration

Iloprost is intended for inhalation use by nebulisation.

To minimize accidental exposure it is recommended to keep the room well ventilated.

The ready-to-use iloprost nebuliser solution is administered with a suitable inhalation device (nebuliser) (see below and section 6.6).

Patients stabilised on one nebuliser should not switch to another nebuliser without supervision by the treating physician as different nebulisers have been shown to produce aerosols with slightly different physical characteristics and delivery of the solution that may be faster (see section 5.2).

• Breelib

Breelib is a small handheld, battery-powered, breath activated, vibrating mesh technology system.

Iloprost 10 micorgram/ml nebuliser solution (1 ml ampoule) delivers 2.5 microgram at the mouthpiece of the Breelib nebuliser.

At initiation of iloprost treatment or if the patient is switched from an alternative device, the first inhalation should be made with 1 ml ampoule of iloprost 10 microgram/ml (see section 4.4). If inhalation with iloprost 10 microgram/ml is well tolerated, the dose should be increased using other available presentations on the market containing 20 microgram/ml of iloprost. This dose should be maintained. In case of poor tolerability of this higher dose, the dose should be reduced by using 1 ml ampoule of iloprost 10 microgram/ml (see section 4.4).

The duration of an inhalation session with Breelib nebuliser is approximately 3 minutes.

Patients initiating iloprost treatment or switching from an alternative device to Breelib should be closely supervised by the treating physician to ensure that dose and speed of inhalation are well tolerated.

When using the Breelib nebuliser please follow the instructions for use provided with the device.

Fill the medication chamber with iloprost immediately before use.

• I-Neb AAD

The I-Neb AAD system is a portable, hand-held, vibrating mesh technology nebuliser system. This system generates droplets by ultrasound, which forces the solution through a mesh. The I-Neb AAD nebuliser has been shown to be suitable for the administration of iloprost 10 microgram/ml. The mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of the aerosol measured using I-Neb nebulising systems equipped with power level 10 disc was around 2 micrometres.

The dose delivered by the I-Neb AAD system is controlled by the medication chamber in combination with a control disc. Each medication chamber is colour coded and has a corresponding colour coded control disc.

At initiation of iloprost treatment with I-Neb system the first inhaled dose should be 2.5 microgram iloprost as delivered at the mouthpiece of the nebuliser using 1 ml ampoule of iloprost. If this dose is well tolerated, dosing should be increased to 5 microgram iloprost using 1 ml ampoule of iloprost and maintained at that dose. In case of poor tolerability of the 5 microgram dose, the dose should be reduced to 2.5 microgram iloprost.

This nebuliser monitors the breathing pattern to determine the aerosol pulse time required to deliver the pre-set dose of 2.5 or 5 microgram iloprost.

For the 2.5 microgram dose of iloprost the medication chamber with the red coloured latch is used together with the red control disc.

For the 5 microgram dose of iloprost the medication chamber with the purple coloured latch is used together with the purple control disc.

For each inhalation session with the I-Neb AAD, the content of one 1 ml ampoule of iloprost is transferred into the medication chamber immediately before use.

Drug product

Dosage

I-Neb AAD

Estimated inhalation time

Medication chamber latch

Control disc

Iloprost

2.5 mcg

red

red

3.2 min

5 mcg

purple

purple

6.5 min

• Venta-Neb

Venta-Neb, a portable ultrasonic battery-powered nebuliser, has been shown to be suitable for the administration of 2 ampoules of iloprost nebuliser solution. The measured MMAD of the aerosol droplets was 2.6 micrometres.

At initiation of iloprost treatment with Venta-Neb the first inhaled dose should be 2.5 microgram iloprost as delivered at the mouthpiece of the nebuliser using two 1 ml ampoules of iloprost. If this dose is well tolerated, dosing should be increased to 5 microgram iloprost using two 1 ml ampoules of iloprost and maintained at that dose. In case of poor tolerability of the 5 microgram dose, the dose should be reduced to 2.5 microgram iloprost.

For each inhalation session with the Venta-Neb, the content of two 1 ml ampoules of iloprost are transferred into the nebuliser medication chamber immediately before use.

Two programmes can be operated:

P1 Programme 1:

5 microgram active substance on the mouth piece 25 inhalation cycles.

P2 Programme 2:

2.5 microgram active substance on the mouth piece 10 inhalation cycles. The selection of the pre-set programme is made by the physician.

Venta-Neb prompts the patient to inhale by an optical and an acoustic signal. It stops after the pre-set dose has been administered.

To obtain the optimal droplet size for the administration of iloprost nebuliser solution the green baffle plate should be used. For details refer to the instruction manual of the Venta- Neb nebuliser.

Drug product

Dose of iloprost at mouthpiece

Estimated inhalation time

Iloprost

2.5 mcg

5 mcg

4 min

8 min

Other nebulising systems

The efficacy and tolerability of inhaled iloprost when administered with other nebulising systems, which provide different nebulisation characteristics of iloprost solution, have not been established.

4.3. Contraindications

- Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

- Conditions where the effects of iloprost on platelets might increase the risk of haemorrhage (e.g. active peptic ulcers, trauma, intracranial haemorrhage).

- Severe coronary heart disease or unstable angina.

- Myocardial infarction within the last six months.

- Decompensated cardiac failure if not under close medical supervision.

- Severe arrhythmias.

- Cerebrovascular events (e.g. transient ischaemic attack, stroke) within the last 3 months.

- Pulmonary hypertension due to venous occlusive disease.

- Congenital or acquired valvular defects with clinically relevant myocardial function disorders not related to pulmonary hypertension.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

The use of iloprost is not recommended in patients with unstable pulmonary hypertension, with advanced right heart failure. In case of deterioration or worsening of right heart failure transfer to other medicinal products should be considered.

Hypotension

Blood pressure should be checked while initiating iloprost. In patients with low systemic blood pressure and in patients with postural hypotension or receiving medicinal products known to reduce blood pressure levels, care should be taken to avoid further hypotension. Iloprost should not be initiated in patients with systolic blood pressure less than 85 mmHg.

Physicians should be alerted to the presence of concomitant conditions or medicinal products that might increase the risk of hypotension and syncope (see section 4.5).

Syncope

The pulmonary vasodilatory effect of inhaled iloprost is of short duration (1-2 hours).

Syncope is a common symptom of the disease itself and can also occur under therapy. Patients who experience syncope in association with pulmonary hypertension should avoid any exceptional straining, for example during physical exertion. Before physical exertion it might be useful to inhale. The increased occurrence of syncope can reflect therapeutic gaps, insufficient effectiveness and/or deterioration of the disease. The need to adapt and/or change the therapy should be considered (see section 4.8).

Patients with diseases of the respiratory tract

Iloprost inhalation might entail the risk of inducing bronchospasm, especially in patients with bronchial hyperactivity (see section 4.8). Moreover, the benefit of iloprost has not been established in patients with concomitant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and severe asthma. Patients with concomitant acute pulmonary infections, COPD and severe asthma should be carefully monitored.

Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease

Pulmonary vasodilators may significantly worsen the cardiovascular status of patients with pulmonary veno-occlusive disease. Should signs of pulmonary oedema occur, the possibility of associated pulmonary veno-occlusive disease should be considered and treatment with iloprost should be discontinued.

Interruption of therapy

In case of interruption of iloprost therapy, the risk of rebound effect is not formally excluded. Careful monitoring of the patient should be performed, when inhaled iloprost therapy is stopped and an alternative treatment should be considered in critically ill patients.

Renal or hepatic impairment

Data with intravenously administered iloprost indicated that the elimination is reduced in patients with hepatic dysfunction and in patients with renal failure requiring dialysis (see section 5.2). A cautious initial dose titration using dosing intervals of 3-4 hours is recommended (see section 4.2).

Serum glucose levels

Prolonged oral treatment with iloprost clathrate in dogs up to 1 year was associated with slightly increased fasted serum glucose levels. It cannot be excluded that this is also relevant to humans on prolonged iloprost therapy.

Undesirable exposure to iloprost

To minimise accidental exposure, it is recommended to use iloprost with nebulisers with inhalation-triggered systems (such as Breelib or I-Neb), and to keep the room well ventilated.

Newborns, infants, and pregnant women should not be subjected to iloprost in the room air.

Skin and eye contact, oral ingestion

Iloprost nebuliser solution should not come into contact with skin and eyes; oral ingestion of iloprost solution should be avoided. During nebulisation sessions a facial mask must be avoided and only a mouthpiece should be used.

Iloprost contains ethanol

This medicinal product contains 0.78 mg of alcohol (ethanol) in 1 ml of the nebuliser solution which is equivalent to 0.81 mg 96% ethanol (v/v). The small amount of alcohol in this medicinal product will not have any noticeable effects.

Switching to the Breelib nebuliser

Limited data are available on the use of the Breelib nebuliser. For patients being switched from an alternative device to the Breelib nebuliser the first inhalation should be made with iloprost delivering 2.5 microgram iloprost at the mouthpiece and under close medical supervision to ensure that the faster inhalation provided by Breelib is well tolerated. First dosing with 2.5 microgram should be done even if patients had already been stable on 5 microgram inhaled with an alternative device (see section 4.2).

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Iloprost may increase the effects of vasodilatators and antihypertensive agents and then favour the risk of hypotension (see section 4.4). Caution is recommended in case of co-administration of iloprost with other antihypertensive or vasodilatating agents as dose adjustment might be required.

Since iloprost inhibits platelet function its use with the following substances may enhance iloprost- mediated platelet inhibition, thereby increasing the risk of bleeding:

• anticoagulants, such as

- heparin,

- oral anticoagulants (either coumarin-type or direct),

• or other inhibitors of platelet aggregation, such as

- acetylsalicylic acid,

- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicinal products,

- non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors like pentoxifylline,

- selective phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE3) inhibitors like cilostazol or anagrelide,

- ticlopidine,

- clopidogrel,

- glycoprotein IIb/IIIa antagonists, like

o abciximab,

o eptifibatide,

o tirofiban,

- defibrotide.

A careful monitoring of the patients taking anticoagulants or other inhibitors of platelet aggregation according to common medical practice is recommended.

Intravenous infusion of iloprost has no effect either on the pharmacokinetics of multiple oral doses of digoxin or on the pharmacokinetics of co-administered tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) in patients.

Although, clinical studies have not been conducted, in vitro studies investigating the inhibitory potential of iloprost on the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes revealed that no relevant inhibition of drug metabolism via these enzymes by iloprost is to be expected.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Women of childbearing potential

Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraceptive measures during treatment with iloprost.

Pregnancy

Women with pulmonary hypertension (PH) should avoid pregnancy as it may lead to life-threatening exacerbation of the disease.

Animal studies have shown reproductive effects (see section 5.3).

There is a limited amount of data from the use of iloprost in pregnant women. If a pregnancy occurs, taking into account the potential maternal benefit, the use of iloprost during pregnancy may be considered, only following careful benefit-risk evaluation, in those women who choose to continue their pregnancy, despite the known risks of pulmonary hypertension during pregnancy.

Breast-feeding

It is not known whether iloprost/metabolites are excreted in human breast milk. Very low levels of iloprost into milk were observed in rats (see section 5.3). A potential risk to the breast-feeding child cannot be excluded and it is preferable to avoid breast-feeding during iloprost therapy.

Fertility

Animal studies have not shown harmful effect of iloprost on fertility.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Iloprost has major influence on the ability to drive and use machines for patients experiencing hypotensive symptoms such as dizziness.

Care should be exercised during initiation of therapy until any effects on the individual have been determined.

4.8. Undesirable effects

Summary of the safety profile

In addition to local effects resulting from administration of iloprost by inhalation such as cough, adverse reactions with iloprost are related to the pharmacological properties of prostacyclins.

The most frequently observed adverse reactions (≥ 20 %) in clinical trials include vasodilatation (including hypotension), headache and cough. The most serious adverse reactions were hypotension, bleeding events, and bronchospasm.

Tabulated list of adverse reactions

The adverse reactions reported below are based on pooled clinical trial data from phase II and III clinical trials involving 131 patients taking iloprost and on data from post-marketing surveillance. The frequencies of adverse reactions are defined as very common (≥1/10) and common (≥1/100 to <1/10). The adverse reactions identified only during post-marketing surveillance, and for which a frequency could not be estimated from clinical trial data, are listed under "Frequency not known".

Within each frequency grouping, adverse reactions are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.

System organ class

(MedDRA)

Very common

(≥1/10)

Common

(≥1/100 to <1/10)

Not known (cannot be estimated from the available data)

Blood and lymphatic system disorders

Bleeding events*§

Thrombocytopenia

Immune system disorders

Hypersensitivity

Nervous system disorders

Headache

Dizziness

Cardiac disorders

Tachycardia

Palpitations

Vascular disorders

Vasodilatation

Flushing

Syncope§ (see section 4.4)

Hypotension*

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Chest discomfort/chest pain

Cough

Dyspnoea

Pharyngolaryngeal pain

Throat irritation

Bronchospasm* (see section 4.4)/Wheezing

Gastrointestinal disorders

Nausea

Diarrhoea

Vomiting

Mouth and tongue irritation including pain

Dysgeusia

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Rash

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Pain in jaw/trismus

General disorders and administration site condition

Peripheral oedema§

* Life-threatening and/or fatal cases have been reported.

§ see section “Description of selected adverse reactions”

Description of selected adverse reactions

Bleeding events (mostly epistaxis and haemoptysis) were very common as expected in this patient population with a high proportion of patients taking anticoagulant co-medication. The risk of bleeding may be increased in patients when potential inhibitors of platelet aggregation or anticoagulants are given concomitantly (see section 4.5). Fatal cases included cerebral and intracranial haemorrhage.

Syncope is a common symptom of the disease itself, but can also occur under therapy. The increased occurrence of syncope can be related to the deterioration of the disease or insufficient effectiveness of the product (see section 4.4).

In clinical trials peripheral oedema was reported in 12.2% of patients on iloprost and 16.2% of patients on placebo. Peripheral oedema is a very common symptom of the disease itself, but can also occur under therapy. The occurrence of peripheral oedema can be related to the deterioration of the disease or insufficient effectiveness of the product.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

Symptoms

Cases of overdose were reported. Symptoms of overdoses are mainly related to the vasodilatory effect of iloprost. Frequently observed symptoms following overdose are dizziness, headache, flushing, nausea, jaw pain or back pain. Hypotension, an increase of blood pressure, bradycardia or tachycardia, vomiting, diarrhoea and limb pain might also be possible.

Management

A specific antidote is not known. Interruption of the inhalation session, monitoring and symptomatic measures are recommended.

🇷🇴 Known in Romania as

Medicines sold in Romania with the same active substance: Cunoscut în România ca

⚠ Same active substance, but a different pharmaceutical form (for example a gel instead of a tablet). Not interchangeable — ask a pharmacist.

  • ILOMEDIN 20 prescriptionILOPROSTUM · injection / infusion

Same active substance. The strength, the form and whether you need a prescription can differ. Always ask a pharmacist before you switch. Romanian medicines in the UK →

🇵🇱 Known in Poland as

Medicines sold in Poland with the same active substance: W Polsce znany jako

⚠ Same active substance, but a different pharmaceutical form (for example a gel instead of a tablet). Not interchangeable — ask a pharmacist.

  • VentavisIloprostum · inhaler / nebuliser
  • Iloprost ZentivaIloprostum · inhaler / nebuliser

Same active substance. The strength, the form and whether you need a prescription can differ. Always ask a pharmacist before you switch. Polish medicines in the UK →

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Ask anything about Iloprost 10 micrograms/ml nebuliser solution Zentiva. The assistant answers only from this leaflet — if the leaflet does not cover it, it will say so. It does not give medical advice.

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