Medication Overview
Promacta (eltrombopag) is an oral medication used primarily to treat certain blood disorders, including chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), aplastic anemia, and hepatitis C-associated thrombocytopenia. It works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more platelets, thereby increasing platelet counts and reducing the risk of bleeding.
Who Should Consider Promacta? Promacta is suitable for:
- Patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) who have not responded sufficiently to other treatments.
- Individuals with severe aplastic anemia who are not suitable for bone marrow transplantation.
- Patients with thrombocytopenia associated with chronic hepatitis C, to enable the initiation and maintenance of antiviral therapy.
How is Promacta Administered? Promacta is taken orally, usually once a day on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. It is important to avoid consuming foods high in calcium or taking supplements within four hours of dosing because calcium can significantly reduce the absorption of the medication.
Important Information for Promacta Users:
- How to Use: Follow your healthcare provider’s dosage instructions carefully.
- Storage: Store Promacta at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
- Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infections, and fatigue. Serious side effects can include liver problems, cataracts, and a risk of blood clots. Report any severe or unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.
- Monitoring: Regular medical check-ups and blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function and platelet counts.
Medication Warnings
- Liver Function: Promacta can increase liver enzyme levels, indicating potential liver damage. Liver function tests should be conducted before starting treatment and regularly thereafter.
- Risk of Blood Clots: There is an increased risk of blood clots due to elevated platelet counts. Be aware of symptoms such as swelling, pain, or redness in the limbs.
- Cataracts: Periodic eye exams are recommended as Promacta has been associated with the formation of cataracts.
- Bone Marrow Reticulin Formation: Use of Promacta may lead to the development of reticulin fibers in the bone marrow, which could impair blood production over time.
Who Should and Shouldn’t Take Promacta?
- Suitable Candidates:
- Patients with chronic ITP, severe aplastic anemia, or hepatitis C-related thrombocytopenia who need to increase their platelet counts for treatment effectiveness or bleeding risk reduction.
- Unsuitable Candidates:
- Individuals with a history of blood clots or thromboembolic events unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.
- Patients with known hypersensitivity to eltrombopag or any components of the formulation.
For more detailed information and personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider.
