Bosentan
Information about Bosentan
Bosentan uses
Bosentan is used in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
How bosentan works
Bosentan 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. Bosentan helps relax these blood vessels and increases the supply of blood to the lungs.
Common side effects of bosentan
Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Respiratory tract infection, Headache, Fainting, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Hypersensitivity, Palpitations, Fluid retention, Chest pain, Joint pain, Cirrhosis of the liver
Available Medicine for Bosentan
Expert advice for Bosentan
- Your doctor has prescribed Bosentan 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.
- Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
- 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 Bosentan affects you.
- Females with reproductive potential should use a reliable form of birth control while using and 1 month after stopping Bosentan as it is toxic to an unborn baby.
- Inform your doctor if you notice weight gain, swelling of your arms and legs, or difficulty breathing.
- Inform your doctor if you notice yellowing of skin/eye, dark urine, or stomach pain.
Frequently asked questions for Bosentan
Bosentan
Q. How is Bosentan administered?
Bosentan is given as a tablet form and can be taken with or without food. The tablets are to be taken twice daily in the morning and evening. The exact dosage and frequency of dose will be decided by the doctor on the basis of age and weight of the patient.
Q. Can I take Bosentan if I have liver problems?
It has been found that in some cases Bosentan can cause liver damage in patients who are prone to have liver disease. This medicine can also lead to increased liver enzymes. Hence, it should be used with caution in prone patients or in patients with history of liver disease. Before starting the medication inform your doctor if you have had a history of liver disease.
Q. Is Bosentan safe in pregnancy?
No, Bosentan is not safe during pregnancy. There is evidence to show that it can cause major birth defects in the newborn baby and can harm the baby in womb. It is not advised to take Bosentan if you are planning to become pregnant. You should use reliable contraception methods while you take Bosentan. Consult your doctor before starting this medication or planning pregnancy.