Side effects and mitigation methods of Aphocentan in Laos
As an endothelin receptor antagonist, the side effects of Aprocitentan mainly involve systemic reactions such as fluid retention, liver dysfunction, etc., which need to be alleviated through monitoring, dosage adjustment and symptomatic treatment. The following will explain the classification of common side effects, warning of serious adverse reactions, and targeted mitigation measures.
1. Common side effects and alleviation
(1) Body fluid retention: manifested as peripheral edema or weight gain, it is recommended to limit sodium intake. Mild edema can lift the limbs for relief, and moderate to severe edema needs to be evaluated for dose reduction or drug withdrawal.
(2) Abnormal liver function: Elevated transaminase levels may occur. Liver function should be monitored monthly during the initial stages of medication, and medication should be suspended until recovery is achieved. If necessary, liver protective drugs should be used in combination.
(3) Headache: mostly temporary, maintain sufficient water intake, avoid caffeine stimulation, and if it persists, consider symptomatic treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
2. Serious adverse reaction warning
(1) Low blood pressure risk: When getting up from the supine position, slow movements are required. If dizziness and vertigo occur, immediately lie down. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention and adjust the dosage.
(2) Fetal toxicity: Pregnant women are strictly prohibited from using it, and women of childbearing age should take dual contraception measures from the time of medication until one month after discontinuation.
(3) Anemia symptoms: Regularly check hemoglobin levels, and supplement with iron or erythropoietin when symptoms such as fatigue or pallor appear.
3. Precautions for special populations
(1) Liver dysfunction: Children Pugh B/C grade patients need to reduce their dosage by 50% and monitor liver function and edema on a weekly basis.
(2) Renal insufficiency: Patients with eGFR<30mL/min should avoid use, and patients with moderate injury should extend the dosing interval to 48 hours.
(3) Elderly patients: People over 65 years old should strengthen blood pressure monitoring and pay attention to electrolyte balance when using diuretics.
4. Drug interaction prevention
(1) Avoid using strong CYP3A4 inducers (such as rifampicin) in combination, as it may reduce blood drug concentration and lead to decreased efficacy.
(2) When used in combination with antihypertensive drugs, caution should be taken against cumulative effects. It is recommended to stagger medication times and increase the frequency of blood pressure monitoring.
(3) Do not use in combination with high potassium drugs (such as ACEIs), and monitor blood potassium levels weekly during medication.
Disclaimer：《Side effects and mitigation methods of Aphocentan in Laos》Edited and sorted by Seagull Pharmacy's editors. Please contact us in time if there is any infringement. In addition, the suggestions for drug usage, dosage and disease mentioned in the article are only for medical staff's reference, and can not be used as any basis for medication！