Nitric Oxide PPH Treatment

Inhaled nitric oxide is a relatively new drug that has been used in PPH patients to relax the blood vessels in the lungs without having any effect on the blood vessels of the rest of the body. It is a short acting agent that specifically effects pulmonary circulation. Most significantly it has been shown to improve the exercise tolerance of PPH Patients.

Inhaled nitric oxide has demonstrated the ability to produce selective pulmonary vasodilatory effects that are similar to those of inhaled Prostacyclin (Iloprost), without the side effects experienced with systemic delivery of the drug. However, evidence suggests that this agent possesses less vasodilator potency than prostanoids. Future studies confirming this benefit are needed.

Nitric Oxide is naturally produced by the endothelial cells in lung blood vessels ( as well as blood vessels throughout the body) and is used by the body to relax these muscles. Inside the lungs it prevents muscle scells from growing and blocking the vessels caused by PPH.

Though a seven year study at UCSD Medical center concluded that inhaled nitric oxide does have measurable benefits, and though it has often been used in the inpatient setting, it is generally still considered investigational. In some cases it has been prescribed as a home regimen, but because it needs to be on continuously (Nitric Oxide only lasts about 15 seconds) is cumbersome and can be difficult to manage. It also seems to present a higher incidence of fainting than other treatments.

However, two companies, Sensormedics and Pulmonox are developing portible, light weight machines for PPH patients. Currently they must transport tanks if they wish to travel. It is also very expensive. The cost of nitric oxide administration is currently in the range of up to $3,000 per day. An administration reform may cap the fee at a total of $4,000 per patient.

Nitric Oxide undergoing more studies and appears to be a viable alternative pulmonary hypertension therapy, that is less invasive than prostacyclins such as Flolan.

Learn about New Treatments and Get Research Updates.
Although Pulmonary Hypertension cannot be cured using existing medicine. It can be controlled with new drugs and therapies.

Learn More about your rights to medical care and bill payment assistance>>


Pulmonary Hypertension Treatments

Return to Home Page