Selexipag


Selexipag is a drug developed by Actelion for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Selexipag and its active metabolite, ACT-333679, are agonists of the prostacyclin receptor, which leads to vasodilation in the pulmonary circulation.

Contraindications

In Europe, use of selexipag together with strong inhibitors of the liver enzyme , such as gemfibrozil, is contraindicated because it increases concentrations of selexipag twofold, and its active metabolite 11-fold, potentially leading to more adverse effects.

Adverse effects

The adverse effects of selexipag are similar to those of intravenous prostacyclins used for pulmonary arterial hypertension. Common side effects include headache and jaw pain. An increased risk for hyperthyroidism has also been noted in people taking selexipag.

History

The US FDA granted selexipag Orphan Drug status for PAH. It was approved by the US FDA on 22 December 2015. The expected price for the drug in the US is $160,000 to $170,000 per patient before rebates.
In Europe, the drug was approved in May 2016.