Alprostadil
Also known as: PGE 1
Alprostadil is a vasodilator and platelet aggregation inhibitor, prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). It belongs to group of compounds called autacoids (autacoids function as a local hormone). Chemically Alprostadil is identified as (11a, 13E, 15S)-11, 15-dihydroxy-9-oxoprost-13-en-1-oic acid. Alprostadil is isolated from the seminal vesicle tissues of sheep. Alprostadil is used for temporary maintenance of the patent ductus arteriosus until corrective or palliative surgery can be performed in neonates with congenital heart defects. Administered intravenously or intra-arterially.
Primary Characteristics
Alprostadil is also known as PGE 1.
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Enoic acid.
It belongs to PGE-I-agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Prostaglandin pharmacological group. It is also classified under Antidotes .
Molecular Weight: 354.5 · pKa: 6.3 · Solubility in Water: >1 in 10 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 125 · Non-proprietary name: Alprostadil.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Alprostadil has an pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 82.5% (±2.5%).
Distribution: Alprostadil has a volume of distribution is 0.65-0.82 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 92%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via extensive, plasma half-life is 30 sec, renal excretion is 82%.
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Indications
Alprostadil is primarily indicated in conditions like Patency of ductus arteriosus.
Alprostadil is also indicated for secondary conditions like Congestive heart failure, Erectile dysfunction, Ischaemic heart disease, Liver diseases, Pulmonary hypertension, Respiratory distress syndrome.
Contraindications
Alprostadil is contraindicated in conditions like Asthma, Bronchospasm.
Dosage
Alprostadil's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 25 – 25 mcg | — | — | Ic | First Dose= 2.5mcg Second Dose= 5mcg (If some same Responce to first dose) or 7.5mcg (if no responce to first dose). Increments should than be 5-10mcg until an effective dose is reacted. the used dose range is 5-20mcg & the maximum recommended dose is 60mcg. Maximum 3 time/week with atleast 24 hours interval between injections. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 5 – 100 ng/kg/min | — | — | IV-inf | Initially 5 ng/kg/min adjust according to responce in steps of 5ng/kg/min |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Alprostadil produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Apnea, Seizures , Severe Hypotension , Severe hypotension. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Alprostadil are Apnea, Pyrexia, Flushing, Hypotension, Bradycardia.
Alprostadil is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal cramps, Diarrhea, Dizziness, Flushing, Reaction at injection site.
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.12.8 — Other cardiovascular preparations