Drug approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a common, serious complication of Scleroderma which can quickly lead to death if left untreated. Opsumit^® (macitentan) was shown to be effective in reducing morbidity and mortality in adult patients with PAH.

In November 2013, Health Canada approved Opsumit^® (macitentan) for the long-term treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension in adults. On October 1^st, 2014, Opsumit^® was added to the List of Medications covered by Quebec’s basic prescription drug insurance plan which are reimbursed by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). This means that Opsumit^® will be readily available for patients with PAH covered either by the RAMQ’s Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan or a private insurer.

Opsumit^® is a valuable option for treating Scleroderma patients with PAH. Scleroderma Quebec is delighted and grateful for the decision of the Government of Quebec.

Here is the link to the “Extract Notice to the Minister” regarding Opsumit^® (i.e. Advice to minister about Opsumit^®) on the website of the Institut national d’excellence en santé et en services sociaux (INESSS):

https://www.inesss.qc.ca/en/activites/drug-products/drug-products-undergoing-evaluation-and-evaluated/extract-notice-to-the-minister/opsumit-1.html