Major Research Findings

Ambrisentan is an effective treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). 10 Ambrisentan has been shown to improve exercise tolerance, decrease the risk of functional class deterioration, and prolong time to clinical worsening in patients with PAH. 10 Ambrisentan has also been shown to have a favorable effect on mortality, with an 88% patient survival rate after two years of therapy compared with a 61% survival rate as estimated by the National Institute of Health Registry. 10

Reasons for Side Effects

Side effects of ambrisentan can vary depending on how the drug works in the body and individual patient sensitivity. Ambrisentan works by blocking the action of endothelin, a substance that constricts blood vessels. This action allows blood vessels to dilate, improving blood flow to the lungs. However, endothelin plays a crucial role in other bodily functions besides blood vessel constriction, so ambrisentan can potentially affect these functions. 13

Common Side Effects

Peripheral Edema

The most common side effect of ambrisentan is peripheral edema (swelling of the hands and feet). 10 This is caused by the drug dilating blood vessels. 10

Nasal Congestion

Ambrisentan can also cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose). 10 This is thought to occur because the drug affects the nasal mucous membrane. 10

Flushing

Ambrisentan can also cause flushing (redness of the face). 10 This is caused by the drug dilating blood vessels. 10

Sinusitis

Ambrisentan can also cause sinusitis. 10 This is thought to occur because the drug affects the nasal mucous membrane. 10

Side Effect Management

Peripheral Edema

Peripheral edema can be reduced by elevating the legs and wearing compression stockings. 10

Nasal Congestion

Nasal congestion can be reduced by using medications that constrict the nasal mucous membrane. 10

Flushing

Flushing usually subsides over time. 10

Sinusitis

Sinusitis can be treated with antihistamines and nasal sprays. 10

Study Comparisons

Commonalities

Ambrisentan has been shown to be effective in improving exercise tolerance, reducing the risk of functional class deterioration, and extending time to clinical worsening in patients with PAH across multiple studies. 10 , 11 , 7

Differences

Side effects of ambrisentan have been reported to vary between studies. For example, one study reported peripheral edema as the most common side effect, while another study reported nasal congestion as the most common side effect. 10 This may be due to differences in the characteristics of the study participants, the dosage of ambrisentan administered, and the study design. 10

Real-Life Application Considerations

While ambrisentan has been shown to be effective in treating PAH, it’s important to remember that there are risks of side effects. 10 When considering ambrisentan use, it is important to consult with a doctor and weigh the risks and benefits. 10

Current Research Limitations

More research is needed on the long-term effects and safety of ambrisentan. 10 Additionally, further research is needed to determine how ambrisentan interacts when used in combination with other PAH medications. 10

Future Research Directions

Large-scale clinical trials are needed to assess the long-term effects and safety of ambrisentan. 10 Clinical trials are also needed to investigate how ambrisentan interacts when used in combination with other PAH medications. 10

Conclusion

Ambrisentan has been shown to be an effective treatment for PAH. 10 Ambrisentan has been shown to improve exercise tolerance, decrease the risk of functional class deterioration, and prolong time to clinical worsening. 10 However, it’s important to remember that ambrisentan comes with risks of side effects. 10 When considering ambrisentan use, it is important to consult with a doctor and weigh the risks and benefits. 10