Ambrisentan
Information about Ambrisentan
Ambrisentan uses
Ambrisentan is used in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
How ambrisentan works
Ambrisentan is an endothelin receptor blocker. It blocks the action of endothelin (a natural substance) that causes blood vessels to narrow (constrict). This narrowing increases the pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs. Ambrisentan helps relax these blood vessels and increases the supply of blood to the lungs.
Common side effects of ambrisentan
Sinus inflammation, Nasal congestion (stuffy nose), Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Peripheral edema, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), Itching, Autoimmune hepatitis, Liver toxicity
Available Medicine for Ambrisentan
Expert advice for Ambrisentan
- Your doctor has prescribed Ambrisentan to treat high pressure in the blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the lungs (the pulmonary arteries).
- It helps improve your quality of life, exercising ability, and delay disease progression.
- Your doctor may ask you to get routine blood tests done to check for anemia and to assess the functioning of your liver.
- Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how Ambrisentan affects you.
- Females with reproductive potential should use a reliable form of birth control while using and 1 month after stopping Ambrisentan as it is toxic to an unborn baby.
- Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
- Inform your doctor if you notice weight gain, swelling of your arms and legs, or difficulty breathing.
Frequently asked questions for Ambrisentan
Ambrisentan
Q. Can Ambrisentan cause liver problems?
Yes, Ambrisentan commonly causes an increase in liver enzymes. It may rarely cause liver injury and inflammation of the liver because of the body’s own defences (autoimmune hepatitis). Consult your doctor if you have nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dark-colored urine and yellowing of the skin.
Q. How should Ambrisentan be taken?
Usually, the doctors advise to take one dose of Ambrisentan. You can take it with or without food but prefer taking it at the same time each day. Swallow it whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew or break it into pieces.
Q. Can I stop taking Ambrisentan on my own?
No, you should not stop taking Ambrisentan without consulting your doctor as this may worsen your condition. Talk to your doctor if you need to stop it.