Eltrombopag
Uses of Eltrombopag
Eltrombopag is commonly used to treat Chronic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia, Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura, Chronic Hepatitis C Infection and aplastic anemia.
How Eltrombopag Works
Eltrombopag is a haemostatic which exerts its action on the pathway regulating megakaryopoiesis and platelet production. Eltrombopag will activate thrombopoietin (TPO) receptor agonist, initiating marrow progenitor cells proliferation and differentiation. Therefore, platelets will increase.
Side Effects of Eltrombopag
Upper respiratory tract infection, Cough, Fever, Anaemia, Decreased appetite, Paraesthesia, Dry eye, Vision blurred, Eye pain, Ear pain, Vertigo, Cough, Hot flush, Nausea, Diarrhea, Rash, Alopecia, Hyperhidrosis, Petechiae, Musculoskeletal pain
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Eltrombopag should be used with caution and close monitoring of their renal function in patients with mild kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Eltrombopag may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it. Use of Eltrombopag in patients with moderate to severe kidney disease has not been studied adequately.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Even though there is insufficient data on drug interactions between alcohol and Eltrombopag. However, generally drinking alcoholic beverages should be kept to a minimum or avoided completely. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Eltrombopag may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits from use in pregnant women may outweigh the risk. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Driving Generally Safe
Eltrombopag may cause side effects such as blurring of vision and vertigo all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Limited Data
Eltrombopag should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate liver disease. Dose adjustment of Eltrombopag may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it. Use of Eltrombopag in patients with severe liver disease is contraindicated.
Lactation Limited Data
Eltrombopag is excreted into the breastmilk of animal studies but its excretion into human breast milk is largely unknown. The decision whether to discontinue breast-feeding or to withhold from Eltrombopag therapy is to be after consulting with your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
