Beraprost (BRP)

Beraprost is a synthetic analogue of prostacyclin, under clinical trials for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension. It is also being studied for use in avoiding reperfusion injury. As an analogue of prostacyclin PGI2, beraprost effects vasodilation, which in turn lowers the blood pressure. Beraprost also inhibits platelet aggregation, though the role this phenomenon may play in relation to pulmonary hypertension has yet to be determined.

Beraprost sodium (beraprost) is a stable, orally active prostacyclin analogue with vasodilatory, antiplatelet and cytoprotective effects. Beraprost acts by binding to prostacyclin membrane receptors ultimately inhibiting the release of Ca2+ from intracellular storage sites. This reduction in the influx of Ca2+ has been postulated to cause relaxation of the smooth muscle cells and vasodilation.