Actelion Pharmaceuticals is a Switzerland-based company that specialises in offering solution for various chronic diseases. The company was founded on December 17, 1997 and offers products to more than 25 countries worldwide.
Ventavis (iloprost) from Actelion Pharmaceuticals is intended to treat patients suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension (WHO Group 1). This inhalation solution is suitable for people with NYHA Class III or IV symptoms. An inhaled synthetic analogue of prostacyclin (PGI2), Ventavis prevents platelet aggregation. Its advantages include producing potent pulmonary vasodilation, anti-proliferation and anti-inflammation. The prostacyclin also improves the cardiac contractility.
Ventavis (iloprost) is similar to endogenous prostacyclin or natural PGI2, but has more chemical stability. It also has longer half life than the natural PGI2. It ensures a significant improvement in patients after 12 weeks of treatment. Up to 10% walk distance is enhanced at the week 12. Patients' functional class is also improved as a result of this treatment. A study on safety and benefits of using Ventavis in patients with PAH, who are also undergoing treatment with bosentan, was conducted. The result shows that the combination was well tolerated by the patients.