Why is this medication prescribed?

Treprostinil injection is prescribed to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. Treprostinil belongs to a class of medications called prostacyclins, which help to widen the blood vessels and improve blood flow in the lungs, thereby reducing the workload on the heart and improving exercise capacity.

How should this medicine be used?

Treprostinil injection is typically used in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The specific dosage and administration method of treprostinil injection depend on various factors such as the patient’s weight, severity of PAH, and individual response to the medication. It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider carefully. Here are some general guidelines for using treprostinil injection:

• Administration Method: Treprostinil injection can be administered continuously through an intravenous infusion pump or intermittently as injections into a vein (intravenously) or under the skin (subcutaneously). The choice of administration method depends on factors such as the patient’s condition, preferences, and healthcare provider’s recommendation.
• Dosage: The dosage of treprostinil injection is determined by your healthcare provider based on your individual needs. Dosage may be adjusted over time based on your response to treatment and any side effects experienced. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage regimen and not to adjust the dosage on your own without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Administration Technique: Treprostinil injection should be administered by a healthcare professional who is trained in the proper administration technique. If administering the injection at home, you will receive detailed instructions from your healthcare provider on how to properly prepare and administer the medication. Proper sterile technique should be followed to minimize the risk of infection.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will monitor your response to treprostinil therapy closely and may perform regular tests to assess your condition and adjust your treatment as needed. Be sure to keep all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to ensure proper monitoring and management of your PAH.
• Storage: Treprostinil injection should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not freeze treprostinil injection, and do not use the medication if it has been frozen. Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.

It’s essential to communicate with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using treprostinil injection. They can provide guidance and support to ensure that you are using the medication safely and effectively for the management of your PAH.

Other uses for this medicine

Treprostinil injection is primarily used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), but it may also have other off-label uses as determined by healthcare providers. However, it’s crucial to note that any off-label use should be discussed thoroughly with your doctor, as they can provide information about potential risks and benefits.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be observed when using treprostinil injection, including:

• Allergy: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to treprostinil or any other medications. Treprostinil injection may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
• Medical History: Provide your complete medical history to your healthcare provider, especially if you have a history of certain conditions such as bleeding disorders, liver disease, kidney disease, or low blood pressure.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Treprostinil injection should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is not known whether treprostinil passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding while using treprostinil is not recommended.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Certain medications may interact with treprostinil injection, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regularly monitor your blood pressure while using treprostinil injection, as it may cause low blood pressure (hypotension). Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dosage accordingly.
• Injection Site Reactions: Be aware of potential injection site reactions, such as pain, swelling, or redness. Rotate injection sites as directed by your healthcare provider to minimize discomfort and tissue damage.
• Infection Risk: Follow proper sterile technique when preparing and administering treprostinil injection to reduce the risk of infection. If you develop signs of infection at the injection site (such as warmth, redness, swelling, or drainage), contact your healthcare provider.
• Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop using treprostinil injection suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to worsening of PAH symptoms. Your dosage may need to be gradually decreased under the supervision of your doctor.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of treprostinil injection, and do not hesitate to ask any questions or seek clarification about your treatment plan.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for Treprostinil Injection may include:

• Fluid Intake: Maintain adequate fluid intake as directed by your healthcare provider. Treprostinil Injection may cause fluid retention, so it’s important to follow any fluid restrictions or recommendations provided by your doctor.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while using Treprostinil Injection, as it may worsen certain side effects such as dizziness or low blood pressure.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Treprostinil Injection:

• If Using an Infusion Pump: If you miss a dose while using Treprostinil Injection through an infusion pump, contact your healthcare provider immediately for instructions. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
• If Using Intermittent Injections: If you miss a dose of Treprostinil Injection administered intermittently, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on when to administer the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Treprostinil injection, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Some common side effects of treprostinil injection include:

• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, or irritation at the injection site.
• Flushing: Redness or warmth of the skin, often occurring shortly after injection.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headache.
• Diarrhea: Increased frequency of bowel movements or loose stools.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling of nausea or vomiting.
• Jaw Pain: Discomfort or pain in the jaw.
• Muscle or Joint Pain: Aches or pains in muscles or joints.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
• Palpitations: Awareness of one’s heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, or rapid heartbeat.
• Edema: Swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet due to fluid retention.
• Low Blood Pressure: Hypotension, which may cause symptoms such as dizziness or fainting.
• Flu-like Symptoms: Fever, chills, or body aches.
• Rash: Skin rash or itching.
• Hemoptysis: Coughing up blood from the lungs.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

These are not all the possible side effects of treprostinil injection. Serious side effects are rare but can occur. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, or if you have concerns about side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

It’s important to report any side effects to your doctor, as they can help determine whether adjustments to your treatment regimen are needed or if further evaluation is necessary. Additionally, if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or severe dizziness, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Treprostinil Injection:

Storage:

• Store Treprostinil Injection as directed by the manufacturer’s instructions, typically at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Do not freeze Treprostinil Injection.
• Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do not use Treprostinil Injection if it has been frozen.

Disposal:

• Dispose of Treprostinil Injection properly according to local regulations or as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Do not dispose of medications in wastewater or household waste unless instructed to do so.
• If you have unused or expired Treprostinil Injection, return it to a pharmacy or healthcare facility for proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose with Treprostinil Injection, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center (in the United States, call 1-800-222-1222). Emergency symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, difficulty breathing, or other serious symptoms.

What other information should I know?

• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are using Treprostinil Injection, including dentists, surgeons, and emergency medical personnel.
• Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and evaluation of your response to treatment.
• Do not share Treprostinil Injection with others, even if they have a similar condition, as it may not be suitable for them.
• Keep a list of all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and provide it to your healthcare provider.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding dosage, administration, and monitoring while using Treprostinil Injection.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Treprostinil Injection or your treatment plan, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure safe and effective use of Treprostinil Injection for the management of your condition.