Off-label use of treprostinil in adult patients in clinical cases

Treprostinil is a relatively new tricyclic prostacyclin analog with a stable structure, extended half-life and improved potency. Currently, treprostinil is indicated by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (group 1 in the pulmonary hypertension classification of the World Health Organization). It has a potent vasodilating effect along with the inhibition of platelet aggregation and the attenuation of the inflammatory response in pulmonary and systemic circulation. It is available in the following formulations: Subcutaneous, intravenous, inhaled and oral. Although unknown to many clinicians, several encouraging reports of off-label treprostinil use in the adult population suggest its potential effectiveness in other clinical conditions. Currently under investigation are digital ischemia secondary to systemic sclerosis, chronic limb ischemia, hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury and group 3 and 4 pulmonary hypertension. Based on review and analysis of the available literature, this article provides a thorough update on the off-label use of treprostinil in adult patients.