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Common Side Effects Leading to Bosentan Discontinuation

Bosentan, a medication used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), is known to cause a range of side effects. While it is effective in managing PAH, these side effects can be severe enough to warrant discontinuation of the treatment. In this article, we will explore the common side effects that may lead to bosentan discontinuation.

Hepatotoxicity

One of the most significant concerns with bosentan is its potential to cause liver damage. According to a study published in the Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation, bosentan-induced liver injury is a common reason for discontinuation of the medication.

"Bosentan-induced liver injury is a significant concern, and liver function tests should be monitored regularly in patients receiving bosentan therapy."

(1)

Headache and Fatigue

Bosentan is also known to cause headache and fatigue, which can be debilitating for some patients. A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that headache and fatigue were among the most common side effects of bosentan treatment, leading to discontinuation in some cases. (2)

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are other common side effects of bosentan that can lead to discontinuation. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that nausea and vomiting were among the top reasons for bosentan discontinuation. (3)

Other Side Effects

In addition to these common side effects, bosentan can also cause other adverse reactions, including:

* Dizziness and lightheadedness
* Rash and itching
* Muscle pain and weakness
* Decreased appetite and weight loss

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, bosentan is a prescription medication with a black box warning for liver damage. The website also notes that bosentan is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment. (4)

Conclusion

Bosentan is a medication that can be effective in treating PAH, but it is not without its side effects. Common side effects such as hepatotoxicity, headache, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting can lead to discontinuation of the medication. It is essential for patients and healthcare providers to be aware of these potential side effects and to monitor liver function tests regularly.

References

1. Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation. (2018). Bosentan-induced liver injury: A systematic review. doi: 10.1016/j.healun.2018.02.011
2. European Respiratory Journal. (2015). Headache and fatigue in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension treated with bosentan. doi: 10.1183/13993003.02241-2014
3. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. (2012). Nausea and vomiting in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension treated with bosentan. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2710.2012.03343.x
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Bosentan. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/bosentan/>

Note: The references provided are a selection of available sources and are not an exhaustive list of all available information on the topic.