Volibris contraindicated in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

on the 3 September 2012

Volibris (ambrisentan) must not be used in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the manufacturer has warned in a letter to healthcare professionals.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis occurs most often in patients aged between 50 and 70 years | SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

The new contraindication follows the early termination of the ARTEMIS-IPF study, which was investigating the potential of ambrisentan to slow disease progression in patients with IPF. Evaluation of the primary endpoint components indicated higher rates of respiratory hospitalisation, mortality and decreases in respiratory function in patients who received ambrisentan than in those on placebo.

Review patients

Patients with IPF who are currently receiving ambrisentan should be carefully assessed and alternative therapies should be considered.

View Volibris drug record

Further information: GlaxoSmithKline

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