Understanding Uptravi Prescribing Information: A Guide for Patients and Healthcare Providers
Introduction
Uptravi is a medication for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a severe condition involving increased blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. To ensure safe and effective use, Uptravi prescribing information includes crucial details for both patients and healthcare providers to understand.
This guide will help both patients and healthcare providers to comprehend Uptravi prescribing information, including its indications, dosage and administration, warnings and precautions, adverse reactions, and drug interactions.
Indications
Uptravi is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) which is classified as WHO Group 1 to improve exercise capacity and reduce the risk of disease progression.
Dosage and Administration
The recommended starting dose of Uptravi is 200 micrograms twice daily. Uptravi may be titrated up to the maximum recommended dose of 1600 micrograms twice daily based on individual tolerability. The tablets should be taken whole with or without food.
Warnings and Precautions
Uptravi carries a boxed warning regarding the risk of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD), a rare and potentially fatal lung condition. Uptravi is contraindicated in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment, and caution should be exercised in patients with mild hepatic impairment or severe renal impairment.
Other side effects and risks associated with Uptravi include:
– Increased risk of bleeding
– Low blood platelet count
– Fluid retention
– Low blood pressure when standing up
It is important for healthcare providers to monitor patients regularly and adjust the dose or discontinue Uptravi if necessary.
Adverse Reactions
The most common adverse reactions reported in patients taking Uptravi include headache, diarrhea, jaw pain, nausea, myalgia, vomiting, and pain in extremity.
Drug Interactions
Uptravi can interact with other medications, including:
– Strong inhibitors of CYP2C8, such as gemfibrozil and lopinavir/ritonavir
– Strong inducers of CYP2C8, such as rifampin
– Anticoagulants, such as warfarin, which may increase the risk of bleeding
Patients should inform their healthcare providers of all medications, supplements, and herbal products they are taking before starting Uptravi.
Conclusion
Understanding Uptravi prescribing information is critical for both patients and healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Healthcare providers should carefully monitor patients for adverse reactions and drug interactions and adjust the dose or discontinue Uptravi if necessary. Patients should also inform their healthcare providers of all medications they are taking before starting Uptravi.
