Drug
Macitentan
Pronounced
"MA-si-TEN-tan"
Uses
Macitentan is used to treat high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension). This condition is thought to be caused by increased levels of a certain natural substance (endothelin-1). This medication blocks the effects of endothelin-1, which helps decrease the blood pressure in the lungs, and reduces the risk of worsening of symptoms and hospital stays due to the disease.
Warning
Macitentan must not be used during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. It is important to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication and for 1 month after treatment. Female patients must use reliable birth control during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose. Ask your doctor which forms of birth control to use while taking this medication. Female patients must take a pregnancy test before starting treatment, monthly during treatment, and 1 month after the last dose. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away.
For female patients to receive macitentan in the United States, they must understand, agree to, and carefully follow the requirements of the REMS Program for this medication. If you are a female patient that lives in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking macitentan and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not split, crush, or chew the tablet.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.
Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.