Key facts about Macitentan
What dosages is Macitentan available in?
Macitentan is available as a 10 mg oral tablet.
What is Macitentan used for?
- Macitentan is an endothelin receptor antagonist and is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
How does Macitentan work?
Macitentan is an endothelin receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the effects of a protein in your body called endothelin. Doing so relaxes the blood vessels that go from your heart to your lungs and allows more blood to flow through. This lowers the amount of work your heart needs to pump blood to your lungs to get oxygen for your body. As a result, it’s easier for you to exercise and breathe.
How do I take Macitentan?
- Macitentan is typically dosed as 10 mg by mouth once per day.
Is it safe for me to take Macitentan?
Macitentan is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you are pregnant.
Macitentan Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Macitentan:
- Cold-like symptoms or a sore throat
- Headache
- Anemia
- Bronchitis
- Urinary tract infection
- Flu
Macitentan Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Macitentan. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Liver problems: swelling of your stomach, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, confusion, dark or brown urine
- Fluid buildup in the body: shortness of breath; swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet; irregular heartbeat; chest pain; unable to exercise; tiredness; unusual weight gain
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Macitentan
The following medications may interact with Macitentan:
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers (rifampin) reduce exposure to Macitentan:
- avoid co-administration with Macitentan).
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, ritonavir) increase exposure
- to Macitentan: avoid co-administration with Macitentan.
Who makes Macitentan?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Macitentan safe in pregnancy?
Macitentan should not be given to a pregnant female because
it may cause fetal harm. Females of reproductive potential: exclude pregnancy before start of treatment, monthly during treatment, and 1 month after stopping treatment. Prevent pregnancy during treatment and for one month after treatment by using acceptable methods of contraception. For all female patients, Macitentan is available only through a restricted program called the Macitentan Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS).
