New Drug Trials

The Liu Center for Pulmonary Hypertension is involved in a dose-ranging study of a new experimental drug for PPH that is similar to prostacyclin. HOWEVER, this drug has a longer half-life, is stable at body temperature for several days and therefore, has the potential for dosage without using an intravenous catheter (continuous subcutaneous dosing). Results from this study will provide important information on the feasibility of developing this drug for long term administration.

This study is sponsored by United Therapeutics Corporation a company begun by former Glaxo Wellcome staff who developed Flolan. The study will compare the acute hemodynamic and safety profiles of this new drug compared to Flolan. This study can be carried out at the same time that a patient is evaluated for chronic prostacyclin therapy. For more information, call our research coordinator, Joy Beckmann at 310-222-3560.