Authors

  1. Aschenbrenner, Diane S. MS, RN

Abstract

* A new orphan drug, selexipag (Uptravi), has been approved to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension. It promotes blood vessel dilation, delaying disease progression and reducing the risk of hospitalization.

 

* In a clinical trial, the most common adverse effects were headache, diarrhea, jaw pain, nausea, myalgia, vomiting, pain in the extremities, flushing, arthralgia, anemia, and diminished appetite. Nausea can be minimized if the drug is taken with food.