BOSENTAS-125MG

Description

BOSENTAS-125MG is a medication containing Bosentan (125mg) as its active ingredient. It belongs to a class of drugs called Endothelin Receptor Antagonists (ERAs).

What it’s used for:

BOSENTAS-125MG is primarily used to treat:

• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): This is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. In PAH, these blood vessels become narrowed, making it harder for the heart to pump blood through the lungs. BOSENTAS-125MG helps to relax and widen these blood vessels in the lungs, improving blood flow, increasing exercise ability, and delaying the progression of the disease.
• Digital Ulcers in Scleroderma: It can also be used in adults to reduce the number of new digital ulcers (sores on the fingers and toes) that occur as a complication of scleroderma, a chronic disease that causes the skin to become thick and hard.

How it works:

Bosentan works by blocking the action of a natural substance in the body called endothelin-1. Endothelin-1 is a powerful vasoconstrictor (a substance that narrows blood vessels) and plays a significant role in the development and progression of PAH by causing the blood vessels in the lungs to constrict and thicken. By blocking endothelin receptors, Bosentan helps to:

• Relax and widen blood vessels in the lungs: This reduces the pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
• Improve blood flow to the lungs: This makes it easier for the heart to pump blood and get oxygen.
• Reduce the workload on the heart: By lowering lung pressure, the right side of the heart, which pumps blood to the lungs, is less strained.

Dosage and Administration:

BOSENTAS-125MG is taken orally, usually twice a day (morning and evening), with or without food. The dose and duration of treatment are determined by your doctor based on your condition and response to the medication. It’s crucial to take this medicine regularly as prescribed to get the most benefit. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as this can worsen your condition.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Ankle swelling or general fluid retention (edema)
• Diarrhea
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)
• Respiratory tract infections (e.g., common cold symptoms, sore throat)
• Flushing (redness and warmth of the skin)
• Nasal congestion
• Low blood pressure
• Joint pain
• Palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeats)

Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if you experience):

• Liver problems: This is a significant concern with bosentan. Symptoms can include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, nausea, vomiting, fever, unusual tiredness, or upper stomach pain. Your doctor will perform regular blood tests to monitor your liver function.
• Anemia: While a common side effect, a significant drop in red blood cell count may require medical attention. Symptoms include unusual tiredness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and cold hands/feet.
• Allergic reactions (Angioedema): Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, leading to difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Significant fluid retention or worsening heart failure.
• New or worsening lung problems (e.g., severe shortness of breath, wheezing, cough with foamy mucus, chest pain).

Important Precautions and Warnings:

• Liver Monitoring: Regular blood tests to check liver function are essential before starting and throughout treatment with BOSENTAS-125MG.
• Pregnancy: BOSENTAS-125MG is contraindicated during pregnancy as it can cause severe birth defects and harm to the fetus. Women of child-bearing potential must use two reliable forms of contraception (one highly effective method and one barrier method) while taking this medication and for at least one month after stopping treatment. Pregnancy tests will be performed monthly.
• Breastfeeding: It is generally not recommended to breastfeed while taking bosentan due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants.
• Fertility: Bosentan may decrease sperm count in males, potentially affecting fertility.
• Drug Interactions: BOSENTAS-125MG interacts with many other medications, including hormonal contraceptives (making them less effective), cyclosporine, glyburide, and certain HIV medications. Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• Liver Disease: Not recommended for patients with pre-existing liver problems.
• Anemia: Patients may develop anemia. Your doctor will monitor your blood count.
• Fluid Retention: This medication can cause or worsen fluid retention. Your doctor will monitor for signs of fluid buildup.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness, so exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Special Program (REMS): In some regions, bosentan is available only through a special restricted distribution program (like the Tracleer REMS program in the US) due to its risks of liver damage and harm to a fetus.

This information is for general understanding and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and management of your specific medical condition.