PROSTAGLANDINS FOR USE IN MEDICINE

摘要

Compounds for use in medicine The present invention is concerned with the use of a compound of formula (I) <IMG> (I) wherein -W- is selected from <IMG> (when Y is -N=) where a is 0 or 1, U is hydrogen or halogen and Z is -V(CH2)bCO2H where b is an integer of from 1 to 3 and V is oxygen or methylene; X is hydrogen, methyl, halogen, cyano, or -C=CH; Y is oxygen, methylene, -N=, or -N(Ar)- where Ar is an optionally substituted phenyl group; R is -(CH2)5R2 where R2 is hydrogen or methyl, or R is cyclohexyl, or R is -CH(CH3)CH2C=CCH3; R1 is hydrogen or methyl; and the dotted lines represent independently optional double bonds; and physiologically acceptable salts and acid derivatives thereof, in the manufacture of a medicament for the prophylaxis or treatment of pulmonary hypertension and in the manufacture of a diagnostic aid for identifying PPH (primary pulmonary hypertensive) patients having active pulmonary vasoconstriction. Medicaments and diagnostic aids obtained by the use of the invention which may be administered when primary or secondary pulmonary hypertension is indicated are also within the scope of the invention.