What is Uptravi?
Uptravi reduces blood pressure in your lungs via dilation (widening) of blood vessels, which carry blood to your lungs.Uptravi is a treatment for the symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
Uptravi can help prevent your condition from becoming worse and reduce your chances of having to be admitted to a hospital for PAH.
Warnings
Discuss with your doctor the medicines you are currently taking and all the ones you begin or stop taking. Numerous drugs interact, and some medications should not be used in conjunction with Uptravi.
Prior to use this drug
It is not recommended to use Uptravi if you are allergic to the chemical selexipag.
A variety of drugs interact and result in dangerous consequences. Certain medications are not recommended to be taken with selexipag. Your doctor might alter the treatment plan when you are also taking:
- Clopidogrel;
- Gemfibrozil.
To ensure that Uptravi is safe for you, ask your physician if you've previously had:
- A condition referred to as pulmonary Veno-occlusive condition (narrowing in the veins carrying blood from the lung towards the heart)
- Liver disease.
It is unclear whether selexipag could harm a newborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are expecting or planning to be pregnant.Breastfeeding is not advised during the use of Uptravi.
Similar or related drugs
Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Adcirca, Revatio, Opsumit, and Ambrisentan
How to take Uptravi?
You should take Uptravi exactly as directed by your physician. Follow the directions on the prescription label and review all medication guides and instructions sheets. Your doctor may modify your dosage.The tablets of Uptravi are consumed by mouth. The tablets can be taken without or with food.Take the tablet in one swallow and make sure you don't chew, crush, or break it.
Uptravi injections are administered through the vein of a healthcare doctor if you are not able to take the medicine orally.Do not take a break from taking Uptravi without consulting your physician. If you stop abruptly, it could cause your condition to get worse.Place tablets in a cooler place, free of heat and moisture.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Pulmonary Hypertension:
The first dose is 200 mg in a single dose, taken orally twice per day.
Maintenance dose: Increase by increments of 200 mg every day every week until the dose with the highest tolerance
The maximum dose is 1600 mg every day, orally.
Comment:
If the patient has reached a dose that is not well tolerated, decrease it to a dose that is previously tolerated.
Use: In the treatment of hypertension of the pulmonary artery (PAH), to slow the development of the disease and lower the likelihood of hospitalization for PAH.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medication as quickly as you are able, but do not miss any missed doses if the coming dose falls within less than six hours. Do not take two doses in one go.
If you have missed doses for three or more days, contact your doctor prior to taking a new dose. It is possible that you will need to retake the medication at the dose you were taking before.
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the poison help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Follow your doctor's advice regarding any restrictions on your food, drink, or activities.
Side effects of Uptravi
See a doctor immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you show symptoms of an allergic reaction. Uptravi: hives and breathing problems or swelling of your lips, face, or tongue.
Contact your doctor immediately. If you suffer from:
- Red blood cell count is low (anemia): pale skin, tired and feeling lightheaded or weak, cold feet and hands,
- New lung issues new lung problems anxiety, sweating, pale skin, intense breathing problems, shortness of breath, struggling to breathe, cough with mucus, foamy chest pain, quick or irregular heart rate
Common Uptravi adverse effects could include:
- Headache;
- Jaw pain;
- Muscle pain, pain in your legs or arms;
- Joint pain;
- Flushing (warmth, redness, warmth, or a tingly sensation);
- Rash;
- Anemia;
- Vomiting, vomiting, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea,
- Discomfort, redness, or swelling after an Uptravi injection was administered.
This list does not constitute a comprehensive listing of side effects; other effects may also occur. Please consult your healthcare provider if any medical effects appear and report any adverse reactions directly to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drugs
On occasion, taking certain medications simultaneously may not be advised. Certain drugs may affect the blood levels and the other medications that you are taking, which can create side effects or render the medications less effective.
Other drugs can interfere with selexipag. These include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your physician about any other medicines you take.
