Flolan
Flolan (epoprostenol) is a prostacyclin analog administered as a continuous intravenous infusion used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). It works by relaxing blood vessels in the lungs, reducing blood pressure and improving exercise capacity in patients with this serious condition.
Flolan is a continuous IV infusion medication for pulmonary arterial hypertension that works by dilating blood vessels in the lungs.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 114221
- Generic
- Flolan
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Flolan is FDA-approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) to improve exercise capacity and reduce symptoms. It may also be used for anticoagulation during renal dialysis in patients at risk for bleeding.
Flolan is a synthetic prostacyclin (PGI2) that acts as a potent vasodilator. It works by relaxing smooth muscle in pulmonary arteries, reducing vascular resistance and blood pressure in the lungs while also inhibiting platelet aggregation.
Flolan requires continuous IV infusion via a pump due to its very short half-life (approximately 3-5 minutes). It must be reconstituted just before use and cannot be stopped abruptly. Common side effects include flushing, headache, jaw pain, nausea, and hypotension. Treatment should be initiated in a healthcare setting.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy