PGI2

Last reviewed 01/2018

Prostacyclin is mainly synthesized by vascular endothelium and smooth muscle. Effects include:

  • inhibitor of platelet aggregation - does not influence platelet degranulation
  • relaxation of smooth muscle
  • reduction of systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance by direct vasodilation
  • natriuresis in kidney

It may be used in ventilated infants who have high pulmonary vascular pressures, giving them a state of persistent fetal circulation. The response to prostacyclin in these circumstances should be rapid; the pulmonary pressure falls and blood flow through the lungs increases, with an increase in oxygenation.