Tracleer (Bosentan)

Description

Tracleer (Bosentan) is an endothelin receptor antagonist. It blocks the effects of endothelin, a substance that constricts blood vessels and raises blood pressure. Tracleer is prescribed to help lower blood pressure within the lungs, a treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Patients taking Tracleer may find an improvement in their ability to engage in physical activity, and the drug also aims to prevent the worsening of their condition.

Directions

Tracleer is taken orally, and the dosage is determined by the healthcare provider based on individual needs and response to the medication. Generally, adults start with 62.5 mg taken twice daily for the first 4 weeks, followed by an increased maintenance dosage of 125 mg twice daily depending on tolerability. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider for exact dosing instructions.

Ingredients

Tracleer contains the active ingredient Bosentan. The medication may also include inactive ingredients, such as corn starch, hydroxypropyl cellulose, low substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose, povidone, and sodium starch glycolate.

Contraindications

The list below details the specific circumstances under which a patient should avoid this medication:

• Pregnancy: Tracleer carries significant risks of birth defects
• Use with Cyclosporine A: Increased risk of side effects due to higher levels of Bosentan
• Use with Glyburide: Can potentially lead to liver injury when taken together
• Hypersensitivity to Bosentan: Should not be used by individuals with known allergies to this medication

Cautions

• Before starting treatment with Tracleer, consult a healthcare provider about the following:
• Any medications you take
• Other medical conditions you have
• Allergies to any medications
• Whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• Tracleer has the potential to cause fluid retention, which might necessitate medical intervention. Be alert for signs like swelling in your legs or sudden weight gain, as these could indicate fluid retention.
• One serious concern is the development of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD), a type of lung disease. If you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, it could indicate PVOD, and you may need to stop taking Tracleer.
• It has been noted that Tracleer can reduce sperm count in some patients. This is a crucial consideration for men who plan to have children.
• Tracleer can cause a decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit. It's important to check your hemoglobin levels one month and three months after starting treatment and then every three months.

Side Effects

Like other medications, Tracleer may cause certain side effects. The most common side effects include respiratory tract infections, headaches, fainting, flushing, low blood pressure, sinusitis, joint pain, and irregular heartbeats.

Tracleer may also cause potentially severe side effects, such as fluid retention, resulting in swelling of the ankles and legs, and lower sperm counts in men, potentially affecting fertility. Anemia, indicated by low red blood cell levels, is another serious side effect. Patients should report any swelling, difficulty in breathing, or concerns about fertility to their healthcare provider. Regular blood tests are recommended to monitor for anemia. Immediate medical attention may be necessary for severe symptoms.

References:

1. Tracleer (Bosentan) Product Monograph. San Francisco: Actelion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2023.
2. Tracleer (Bosentan) Drug Label Information. San Francisco: Actelion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2023.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....