Adempas (riociguat) 2.5 mg film-coated tablets

How It Works

Adempas works by stimulating the enzyme soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC), which is a key regulator of the nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathway. By activating sGC, riociguat increases the levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), leading to relaxation of the smooth muscle cells in the blood vessels. This relaxation results in the dilation of pulmonary arteries, thereby reducing the pulmonary arterial pressure and improving blood flow. This mechanism helps alleviate symptoms associated with pulmonary hypertension and enhances the patient?s ability to exercise.

Side Effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Peripheral edema (swelling of the extremities)
• Anemia

Indications

• Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) ? for patients with WHO Group 4 who are not operable or who have persistent or recurrent CTEPH after surgical treatment
• Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) ? for patients with WHO Group 1 to improve exercise capacity and WHO functional class

Contraindications

• Use with nitrates or nitric oxide donors (e.g., amyl nitrite)
• Use with phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil)
• Pregnancy ? due to risk of fetal harm
• Severe hepatic impairment
• Hypersensitivity to riociguat or any of its components

Price Comparison in Different Countries

Country	Price (per tablet)	Reference
Pakistan	Approximately PKR 3,500	medicalstore.ae Pakistan
United States	USD 250	GoodRx
United Kingdom	GBP 200	NHS UK
Canada	CAD 300	Health Canada
Australia	AUD 350	PBS Australia

Top 5 Global Brands

1. Novartis
2. Pfizer
3. Roche
4. Sanofi
5. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)

Conclusion

Adempas (riociguat) is a critical medication for managing chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). By stimulating the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) enzyme, it helps to dilate pulmonary arteries, thus reducing blood pressure in the lungs and improving exercise capacity. Patients using Adempas should be aware of potential side effects and contraindications, and discuss these with their healthcare provider. The cost of Adempas varies across different countries, and patients should explore financial assistance programs where necessary. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment options for your condition.