Advances in the treatment of Raynaud’s phenomenon

Review

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Author: Terri L Levien

Published Date March 2010 Volume 2010:6 Pages 167 - 177

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/VHRM.S4551

Terri L Levien

Drug Information Pharmacist and Clinical Associate Professor, College of Pharmacy, Washington State University Spokane, WA, USA

Abstract: Raynaud’s phenomenon is a common condition characterized by vasospasm of the digital arteries and resulting cyanosis and redness. It often does not require pharmacologic management, but in some cases symptoms are severe and pharmacologic management is necessary. Calcium channel blockers are often used first-line, but in some patients are ineffective. Patients with severe symptoms or intolerance to available therapies have prompted exploration of alternative therapies, including endothelin antagonists, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, antioxidants, newer vasodilators, statins, and botulinum toxin. These newer therapies provide the focus for this review.

Keywords: Raynaud, iloprost, bosentan, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors