Inhaled epoprostenol to support the severely hypoxemic patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
This article presents a case study demonstrating various rescue therapies considered in the care of a patient with severe, refractory hypoxemia secondary to acute respiratory distress syndrome. In particular, inhaled epoprostenol (Flolan) is becoming an increasingly common alternative to nitric oxide in the treatment of severe, refractory hypoxemia. Research comparing the 2 inhaled vasodilators suggests that epoprostenol is equally efficacious, easier to administer, less costly, and has fewer adverse effects. This article, using a case study approach, discusses the practical implications of this emerging therapy.
Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. ajm10@case.edu
Angela
A
Arumpanayil
D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D011464:Epoprostenol / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D000860:Hypoxia / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing*; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012128:Respiratory Distress Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing; D014665:Vasodilator Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D014665:Vasodilator Agents; D009569:Nitric Oxide; D011464:Epoprostenol