Macitentan
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Definite
Pharmaceutical Class
Endothelin Receptor Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
No
macitentan
Summary
Macitentan is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, which is high blood pressure in the lungs. It helps improve exercise capacity and slow disease progression, making it easier for patients to breathe and perform daily activities.
Macitentan works by blocking endothelin receptors, which are proteins that cause blood vessels to constrict. This action relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure in the lungs, thereby easing the heart's workload.
The usual starting dose of Macitentan for adults is 10 mg once daily. It can be taken with or without food, but should be taken at the same time each day. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
Common side effects of Macitentan include headaches and nasal congestion. These effects vary from person to person and are generally mild. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, consult your doctor.
Macitentan can cause liver problems, so regular liver function tests are recommended. It is not recommended for pregnant women due to potential harm to the unborn baby. Always consult your doctor about any concerns to ensure safe treatment.
Indications and Purpose
How does Macitentan work?
Macitentan works by blocking endothelin receptors, which are proteins that cause blood vessels to constrict. By blocking these receptors, Macitentan relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure in the lungs. This action helps reduce the heart's workload and improves exercise capacity. Think of it like opening a narrow pipe to allow more water to flow through, easing the pressure on the pump.
Is Macitentan effective?
Macitentan is effective for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension, which is high blood pressure in the lungs. It works by relaxing blood vessels, improving blood flow, and reducing the heart's workload. Clinical studies show Macitentan improves exercise capacity and delays disease progression. These results support its effectiveness in managing pulmonary arterial hypertension and improving patients' quality of life.
What is Macitentan?
Macitentan is a medication used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, which is high blood pressure in the lungs. It belongs to a class of drugs called endothelin receptor antagonists, which work by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow. This helps reduce the heart's workload and improves exercise capacity. Macitentan is used to manage symptoms and slow disease progression in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Macitentan?
Macitentan is usually a long-term medication for managing pulmonary arterial hypertension, which is high blood pressure in the lungs. You'll typically take it every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Macitentan treatment.
How do I dispose of Macitentan?
To dispose of Macitentan, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. Mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Macitentan?
Macitentan is usually taken as a once-daily pill. You can take it with or without food, but try to take it at the same time each day. Do not crush or chew the tablet. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
How long does it take for Macitentan to start working?
Macitentan begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. It can take several weeks to see significant improvements in symptoms like shortness of breath and exercise capacity. How quickly the medication works can depend on your overall health and the severity of your condition. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store Macitentan?
Store Macitentan tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep them in a tightly closed container to protect them from damage. Don't store your medicine in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture could affect how well it works. Always store Macitentan out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Macitentan?
The usual starting dose of Macitentan for adults is 10 mg once daily. This dose is typically taken with or without food. There are no specific dose adjustments for children or the elderly, but always follow your doctor's instructions. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response to the medication and any side effects you experience. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized dosing advice.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Macitentan with other prescription drugs?
Macitentan can interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of side effects. For example, it may interact with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, which can increase Macitentan levels in the blood. This might lead to more side effects. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you take to avoid potential interactions. Your doctor can help manage any interactions and adjust your treatment as needed.
Can Macitentan be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Macitentan is not recommended while breastfeeding. There is limited information on whether it passes into human breast milk, but it may pose risks to the infant. If you're taking Macitentan and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely. Your doctor can help you make informed decisions about your treatment.
Can Macitentan be taken safely while pregnant?
Macitentan is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn baby. There is limited evidence on its safety during pregnancy, but it may cause harm. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Does Macitentan have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Macitentan include headaches and nasal congestion. Serious side effects can include liver problems and low blood pressure. If you notice symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or yellowing of the skin, seek medical help. Always inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms while taking Macitentan to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Does Macitentan have any safety warnings?
Macitentan has important safety warnings. It can cause liver problems, so regular liver function tests are recommended. If you experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, seek medical help. Macitentan can also cause low blood pressure, so stand up slowly to avoid dizziness. Not adhering to these warnings can lead to serious health issues. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any new symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Macitentan?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Macitentan. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and watch for warning signs like dizziness or fainting. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Macitentan to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Macitentan?
You can exercise while taking Macitentan, but be cautious. This medication can cause low blood pressure, which might make you feel dizzy during exercise. To exercise safely, drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities if you feel unwell. Watch for signs of dizziness or unusual fatigue. If you notice these symptoms, slow down or stop exercising and rest. Consult your doctor if you have concerns.
Is it safe to stop Macitentan?
Stopping Macitentan suddenly can cause your condition to worsen. It's usually used long-term for conditions like pulmonary arterial hypertension. If you stop taking it, symptoms like shortness of breath may return. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Macitentan. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely.
Is Macitentan addictive?
Macitentan is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Macitentan works by affecting blood vessels to lower blood pressure in the lungs, and this mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that Macitentan doesn't carry this risk.
Is Macitentan safe for the elderly?
The elderly are more vulnerable to medication risks due to age-related changes in the body. Macitentan is generally safe for elderly patients, but they may experience side effects like low blood pressure more frequently. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary. Always consult your doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment for elderly patients taking Macitentan.
What are the most common side effects of Macitentan?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of Macitentan include headaches and nasal congestion. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Macitentan, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication to ensure your treatment remains safe and effective.
Who should avoid taking Macitentan?
Don't take Macitentan if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions require immediate medical help. Macitentan is not recommended for pregnant women due to potential harm to the unborn baby. It's also not suitable for people with severe liver problems. Always consult your doctor about these concerns to ensure safe and effective treatment.
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