Letairis

Generic name: Ambrisentan

What is Letairis?

Letairis is used to treat high blood pressure in the arteries of your lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension, or PAH). It can help improve your ability to exercise and help slow down the worsening of your physical condition.

What is the most important information I should know about Letairis?

Letairis can cause liver injury. Your doctor will have your blood tested before you start Letairis and once a month after that to check your liver function.

Letairis can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Women must not be pregnant when they start taking Letairis or become pregnant while on this medication. Women who are able to get pregnant must have a negative pregnancy test before beginning treatment and each month during treatment. Women who are able to get pregnant must use two different methods of birth control at the same time during treatment with Letairis and for 1 month after stopping Letairis. If you miss your period or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away.

Letairis is only available through a restricted program called the Letairis Education and Access Program (LEAP). In order to receive this medication, you must talk to your doctor, understand the risks and benefits of taking this medication, and agree to all of the instructions in the LEAP program.

Who should not take Letairis?

Do not take Letairis if you are pregnant or become pregnant during treatment with Letairis. You also should not take Letairis if your blood tests show possible liver injury.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Letairis?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Letairis. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or have liver problems.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual initial dosage is 5 milligrams (mg) once daily with or without food. Your doctor may increase your dose to 10 mg once daily if the lower dose is well tolerated.

How should I take Letairis?

You may take Letairis with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole and not split, crushed, or chewed.

What should I avoid while taking Letairis?

Avoid becoming pregnant while on this medication. Also, avoid breastfeeding your baby while on this medication unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Letairis?

If Letairis is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Letairis with cyclosporine A, ketoconazole, or omeprazole.

What are the possible side effects of Letairis?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: fluid retention; swelling of hands, legs, ankles, and feet; stuffy nose; flushing; stomach pain; constipation; headache; shortness of breath; sinus inflammation; palpitations; red and sore throat and nose

Can I receive Letairis if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You cannot take Letairis if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant due to the potential harm to the baby. Breastfeeding is not recommended while on this medication.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Letairis?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember that day. Then, take your next dose at the regular time the next day. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

How should I store Letairis?

Store Letairis at room temperature in the package it comes in.