Practical considerations for therapies targeting the prostacyclin pathway

Abstract

Therapies that target the prostacyclin pathway play a key role in the treatment of both early- and late-stage pulmonary arterial hypertension, and provide significant clinical benefits for patients. A number of agents have been approved, which are administered via intravenous, subcutaneous, inhaled or oral routes. The use of these therapies is associated with practical challenges, relating to the need for up-titration and their routes of administration. We discuss here a number of measures that can be taken to support patients and healthcare professionals in order to address the complexities of using these therapies and to encourage compliance. Providing patients with timely information and education, together with practical advice on managing their medication and associated equipment, assists patients with day-to-day management of therapy. Referral to patient associations and support groups can be of further benefit. With an effective management plan and an experienced multidisciplinary team, the use of therapies that target the prostacyclin pathway can be optimised.