Uses of Riociguat

Riociguat is used in the treatment of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and some types of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) such as idiopathic PAH (the cause of PAH is unknown), heritable PAH and PAH caused by connective tissue disease.

Therapeutic Category

Riociguat: Vasodilators (Guanylate cyclase stimulator)

How Riociguat works

Riociguat works by widening the arteries that connect heart to lungs (pulmonary arteries) which makes blood pumping easier for the heart. By widening the narrowed arteries, it helps improving your ability to carry out physical activity.

Common side effects of Riociguat

• gastric problems (indigestion, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, swollen stomach and other parts of digestive system, pain in abdomen, heartburn, constipation, difficulty in swallowing, bloating)
• dizziness, headache
• swelling of limbs
• nose bleeding
• low blood pressure
• nasal congestion
• being aware of rapid, irregular or throbbing heartbeat

When to consult your doctor

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience presence of blood in cough (haemoptysis)
• If you experience acute bleeding from lungs (pulmonary haemorrhage)

Health Tips for Riociguat

• Eat a balanced and nutritious diet to support your overall health and provide essential nutrients to your body during treatment
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay well-hydrated, especially if you experience any side effects like diarrhea
• This medicine should be taken with food. Taking it with a meal helps to improve its absorption and reduce the risk of stomach upset
• If you smoke, consider quitting smoking. Smoking can worsen pulmonary hypertension and reduce the efficacy of treatment
• It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol or limit its intake while on riociguat, as alcohol may interact with the medication
• If your doctor approves, engage in regular physical activity that suits your condition and abilities. Exercise can help improve your overall well-being and may complement your treatment
• Follow your doctor's prescribed treatment plan and take riociguat as directed. Adherence to the recommended dosage and dosing schedule is essential for the medication's effectiveness in treating your condition