The investigators hypothesize that inhaled prostacyclins (Iloprost in this study) may improve inflammation and oxygenation in suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure.~Research participants: Suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) of intensive care units (ICU) with Hypoxemic respiratory failure.~Intervention: Inhaled Iloprost (Tradename Ventavis by Actelion Pharmaceuticals US, Inc.) three times daily for 5 days Methods: patients will be screened in ED and ICU for inclusion and exclusion criteria and then consent will be obtained. The intervention will be started within 48 hours of presentation. Baseline parameters on oxygenation, inflammatory markers, hemodynamics will be obtained and followed serially over the period of the intervention. Additional data about time to intubation, time on mechanical ventilation, lung mechanics, and need for prone positioning will also be collected.~Data will be analyzed for percentage improvement in oxygenation (Oxygen saturation and PaO2/FiO2 ratio), trends of inflammatory markers, and hemodynamic stability while Iloprost is administered.~Based on previous studies of Iloprost on ARDS patients, the investigators anticipate an improvement in oxygenation and inflammatory parameters and possible prevention of intubation with shorter mechanical ventilation times. Iloprost showed a safe profile with stable hemodynamics during administration.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a type of respiratory failure characterized by the rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs. ARDS is thought to be the main cause of respiratory failure in COVID-19 patients. Research is still ongoing to further elucidate the different ARDS subtypes that may exist in COVID-19. It is crucial to find new targets for treatment and support of COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure.