Riociguat

Riociguat is a prescription medicine used for treating certain types of pulmonary hypertension (PH), a condition where there is high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. It helps improve the ability to exercise and delays the worsening of the disease. Riociguat works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels in the lungs, making it easier for the heart to pump blood through them. It is typically used under medical supervision in patients who have chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) or pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Uses of Riociguat

• Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
• Treatment of Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH)
• Improves exercise ability
• Delays disease progression in pulmonary hypertension patients

How Riociguat works

Riociguat works by stimulating an enzyme called soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC). This helps relax the blood vessels in the lungs, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow, easing the workload on the heart.

Benefits of Riociguat

• Improves breathing and exercise capacity
• Helps reduce pressure in pulmonary arteries
• Slows down the progression of pulmonary hypertension
• Improves quality of life in affected patients

How to take Riociguat

Take Riociguat exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken 3 times a day with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush or split the tablet. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and tolerance.

Type of Dosage Available

• Tablet

Side effects of Riociguat

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Indigestion
• Low blood pressure
• Fainting
• Swelling in hands or feet
• Bleeding (rare)

Safety advice

• Not safe during pregnancy – may harm the unborn baby
• Avoid smoking as it reduces the effectiveness
• Monitor blood pressure regularly
• Inform your doctor about kidney or liver issues
• Do not take with nitrates or nitric oxide donors

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Riociguat used for?
A: Riociguat is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).

Q: Can I take Riociguat during pregnancy?
A: No, Riociguat is not safe during pregnancy and may cause harm to the unborn baby.

Q: How many times a day should I take Riociguat?
A: It is usually taken three times daily. Follow your doctor's dosage instructions carefully.

Q: What are the common side effects of Riociguat?
A: Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.

Q: Is Riociguat a blood thinner?
A: No, it is not a blood thinner. It works by relaxing blood vessels in the lungs to improve blood flow.