Aprocitentan, available as Aprocent 12.5mg Tablet, is a medicine used in the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension). It belongs to a class of drugs known as endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs), which help relax blood vessels and reduce pressure in the arteries.
This medicine is particularly used in patients with difficult-to-control or resistant hypertension, often in combination with other blood pressure medicines.
What is Aprocitentan (Aprocent 12.5mg) Used For?
Aprocitentan is mainly prescribed for:
- Treatment of resistant hypertension (blood pressure that remains high despite using multiple medicines)
-
Lowering high blood pressure to reduce the risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Heart failure
Important: This medicine is usually used along with other antihypertensive drugs, not alone.
How Aprocitentan Works
Aprocitentan blocks the action of endothelin, a natural substance in the body that causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking endothelin receptors, it helps:
- Relax blood vessels
- Improve blood flow
- Lower blood pressure
This reduces strain on the heart and protects organs from damage caused by high blood pressure.
Dosage
The usual recommended dose is:
- 12.5 mg once daily, with or without food
- Taken at the same time every day
- Can be used alone or in combination with other blood pressure medicines
Your doctor may adjust the dose based on:
- Blood pressure response
- Kidney and liver function
- Other medications you are taking
Do not change the dose without medical advice.
Side Effects
Some patients may experience mild to moderate side effects, including:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Fluid retention (swelling in legs or ankles)
- Nasal congestion
- Fatigue
Serious Side Effects (Rare but Important)
Seek medical help immediately if you experience:
- Severe swelling of hands, feet, or face
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Sudden weight gain due to fluid retention
- Signs of liver problems (yellow skin/eyes, dark urine)
Warnings & Precautions
Do not use Aprocitentan if:
- You are pregnant or planning pregnancy (it may harm the baby)
- You are breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have severe liver disease
- You are allergic to Aprocitentan or similar medicines
Precautions:
- Regular blood pressure monitoring is required
- Your doctor may check kidney and liver function periodically
- Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking
Drug Interactions
Aprocitentan may interact with:
- Other blood pressure medicines
- Diuretics (water pills)
- Liver-affecting drugs
- Certain antibiotics or antifungals
Always inform your doctor about all medicines and supplements you use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Aprocent 12.5mg used for?
A: It is used to treat resistant high blood pressure, especially in patients who do not respond well to standard medications.
Q: Who can use Aprocitentan?
A: Adults with diagnosed hypertension, particularly those with difficult-to-control blood pressure, as prescribed by a doctor.
Q: How should I take Aprocent 12.5mg?
A: Take one tablet daily, at the same time each day, with or without food, as advised by your physician.
Q: Is Aprocent 12.5mg safe?
A: Yes, when used under medical supervision with regular monitoring of blood pressure and organ function.
Q: What are the side effects of Aprocitentan?
A: Common effects include headache, dizziness, low blood pressure, and fluid retention; serious effects are rare but require medical attention.
Q: Can pregnant women use Aprocent?
A: No, it is not recommended in pregnancy due to potential harm to the unborn baby.
Q: Are there alternatives to Aprocitentan?
A: Yes, alternatives may include ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, or other antihypertensives depending on the case.
Q: Is Aprocent 12.5mg available in Pakistan?
A: Yes, Aprocent 12.5mg Tablet is available at Mr Medicine Mart in Pakistan, with home delivery and competitive pricing.