Alprostadil (Into a vein)
al-PROS-ta-dil
Treats certain heart, lung, and blood vessel problems in infants.
Drug classes
Endocrine-Metabolic Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Alprostadil injection is used to treat certain heart, lung, and blood vessel problems in infants. It is used to temporarily keep the ductus arteriosus (blood vessel in the heart) open before having a surgery.
This medicine is to be given only by or under the supervision of your child’s doctor.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
A nurse or other health provider will give your baby this medicine. It is given through a needle or a catheter placed in a vein. It may also be given through a catheter in your baby’s umbilical cord.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
Do not let your baby receive this medicine if he had an allergic reaction to alprostadil.
Warnings
Tell caregivers if your baby has problems with breathing, digestion, or bleeding.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Fast or slow heartbeat
Redness, swelling, or leaking from the IV site
Seizures, fainting, or becoming limp
Trouble breathing
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Diarrhea, swollen belly, vomiting, or other digestion problems
Fever, unusual warmth or redness of the skin, or problems keeping a warm body temperature
Irritability
Joint swelling, or a decrease in movement of the arms or legs
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Prostin VR Pediatric
There may be other brand names for this medicine.