Bosentan
Uses of Bosentan
Bosentan is commonly used to treat Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
How Bosentan Works
Bosentan is an endothelin-receptor antagonist (ERA). It is an antihypertensive drug that works by blocking the endothelin receptors. This will reduce the presence of endothelin in the blood thus lowering the blood pressure in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Side Effects of Bosentan
Headache, Inflamed upper respiratory tract like nose and throat, Hot flashes, Ankle and leg swelling, Fast heart beat, Fatigue, Itching, rash, skin redness, Diarrhea
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Dose adjustment of Bosentan may not be needed.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Bosentan. Taking Bosentan with alcohol may have additive effects in lowering blood pressure. Hence, taking Bosentan with alcohol is not advisable
Pregnancy Not Safe - High Risk
Bosentan is contraindicated during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown toxicity while there are limited studies on humans it has been shown to have serious birth defects on the fetus.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Because side effects of Bosentan includes headache and fatigue, all of this could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
Bosentan should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Bosentan may be needed depending on the liver function tests. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Not Advisable
Bosentan is not safe to use during lactation. It is not known whether it is excreted in the milk, but evidence of toxicity therefore concluded that breastfeeding women taking this medication should accustom their babies to food other than the mother's milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
