Cardiovascular
Medicines for Pulmonary hypertension
High blood pressure in the arteries supplying the lungs, which strains the heart and causes breathlessness — managed according to its cause, sometimes with specialist medicines.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Pulmonary hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure specifically in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs (different from ordinary high blood pressure in the body's main circulation). The raised pressure makes it harder for the right side of the heart to pump blood through the lungs, which over time strains and can weaken it.
- How it is treated: Treatment depends heavily on the underlying cause, so identifying the type is central.
- Self-care: Following the treatment plan, staying active within advised limits, managing fluid and swelling as directed, keeping up with vaccinations, and seeking pre-pregnancy advice (as pregnancy carries particular risks) all help.
- When to seek help: See a GP about gradually worsening breathlessness, tiredness, dizziness or ankle swelling, so the cause can be investigated.
What it is
Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure specifically in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs (different from ordinary high blood pressure in the body's main circulation). The raised pressure makes it harder for the right side of the heart to pump blood through the lungs, which over time strains and can weaken it. Symptoms develop gradually and include breathlessness (at first on exertion, later with less activity), tiredness, dizziness or fainting, chest discomfort, and swelling of the ankles and tummy. It has several causes, including problems with the lung blood vessels themselves, left-sided heart conditions, chronic lung diseases, and blood clots in the lungs. Because symptoms are non-specific and it can be serious, diagnosis can be delayed; it is confirmed with tests including a heart ultrasound and specialist measurements.
How it is treated
Treatment depends heavily on the underlying cause, so identifying the type is central. Where pulmonary hypertension is due to another condition (such as a lung disease, left-heart problem or blood clots), treating that condition is key. A specific group of pulmonary hypertension affecting the lung arteries directly is treated in specialist centres with particular medicines that widen these arteries and reduce the pressure, and other supportive treatments. Across all types, managing symptoms — with measures for breathlessness, fluid (using water tablets for swelling), oxygen if needed, and treating clots — and supporting the person are important. Care is coordinated by specialists, and for the rarer direct form, by designated pulmonary hypertension centres. Early diagnosis improves outcomes, so persistent unexplained breathlessness warrants assessment.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Pulmonary hypertension
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Following the treatment plan, staying active within advised limits, managing fluid and swelling as directed, keeping up with vaccinations, and seeking pre-pregnancy advice (as pregnancy carries particular risks) all help. Treating any underlying lung or heart condition is central.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP about gradually worsening breathlessness, tiredness, dizziness or ankle swelling, so the cause can be investigated. Seek urgent care for fainting, severe breathlessness or chest pain.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Pulmonary hypertension: frequently asked questions
Is pulmonary hypertension the same as high blood pressure?
No — pulmonary hypertension is high pressure specifically in the arteries to the lungs, which strains the right side of the heart. It is different from ordinary high blood pressure in the body's main circulation and is managed differently.
How is pulmonary hypertension treated?
It depends on the cause. Where it is due to another condition, that is treated. A specific form affecting the lung arteries is treated in specialist centres with particular medicines that widen these arteries, along with managing symptoms.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Pulmonary hypertension
- Pulmonary Hypertension Association UK guidance
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