Macitent contains macitentan, a medicine used in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, which is a condition where the blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs becomes abnormally high. This condition puts strain on the heart and can lead to serious complications if not managed properly. Macitent is used to improve symptoms, enhance exercise capacity, and slow down disease progression in patients with this condition.

Mechanism of Action

Macitentan works by blocking the action of endothelin, a natural substance in the body that causes blood vessels to narrow. People with pulmonary arterial hypertension often have too much endothelin, which leads to high pressure in the lungs’ blood vessels.

Macitentan belongs to a class of medicines called endothelin receptor antagonists. By preventing endothelin from binding to its receptors, Macitent helps the blood vessels in the lungs relax and widen. This reduces the resistance the heart has to work against and improves blood flow and oxygen delivery.

Uses

Macitent is prescribed for:

• Treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension in adults

• Improving exercise ability in people with reduced physical stamina due to high lung pressure

• Slowing the worsening of symptoms and reducing the risk of hospitalisation due to the disease

  Adverse Effects

  Macitent is generally well tolerated, but like all medicines, it may cause side effects in some people. These may include:

  • Headache or tiredness

  • Nasal congestion or a blocked nose

  • Sore throat or flu-like symptoms

  • Anaemia, which means a decrease in red blood cell count

  • Swelling in the legs or ankles due to fluid retention

  • Liver enzyme changes, which may require regular blood monitoring