Primary Pulmonary Hypertension

Abstract

Primary pulmonary hypertension is a disease of unknown cause characterized by exertional dyspnea, dizziness and syncope and a progressive course resulting in death usually within three to seven years after the onset of symptoms. No therapeutic measures have been successful in relieving symptoms or affecting the course of the disease.^{1 2 3 4 5 6} Parenteral isoproterenol (Isuprel), methamphetamine and tolazoline have been shown to decrease pulmonary-artery pressure in acute studies.⁷ Isoproterenol has been said to be beneficial in the chronic treatment of two patients with primary pulmonary hypertension, but long-term results have not been reported.⁸ Sublingual isoproterenol had long-term favorable symptomatic effects over a . . .