Advances in the treatment of Raynaud’s phenomenon

Abstract

Terri L LevienDrug Information Pharmacist and Clinical Associate Professor, College of Pharmacy, Washington State University Spokane, WA, USAAbstract: Raynaud’s phenomenon is a common condition characterized by vasospasm of the digital arteries and resulting cyanosis and redness. It often does not require pharmacologic management, but in some cases symptoms are severe and pharmacologic management is necessary. Calcium channel blockers are often used first-line, but in some patients are ineffective. Patients with severe symptoms or intolerance to available therapies have prompted exploration of alternative therapies, including endothelin antagonists, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, antioxidants, newer vasodilators, statins, and botulinum toxin. These newer therapies provide the focus for this review.Keywords: Raynaud, iloprost, bosentan, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors