Resumen de New Drug Treats Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Diane S. Aschenbrenner

• * A new endothelin-receptor blocker, macitentan (Opsumit), has been approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension.

  * The drug may produce severe fetal disorders and cannot be used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age are required to receive the drug through a special restrictive program.

  * Nurses should confirm that female patients are not pregnant prior to the start of therapy and that they understand the need for adherence to specific birth control measures.