Eltrombopag 50mg Tablets

Product Introduction

Eltrombopag 50mg is a thrombopoietin-receptor agonist used to raise platelet counts in persistent or chronic immune thrombocytopenia when other treatments have been insufficient. It also has selected roles in severe aplastic anaemia and hepatitis C-associated thrombocytopenia. The treatment aim is to reduce bleeding risk, not to make the platelet count unusually high.

How to use

Swallow the tablet whole once daily, on an empty stomach at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. Keep it at least two hours before or four hours after dairy products, calcium-rich foods, antacids and supplements containing calcium, iron, magnesium, aluminium or zinc. These can markedly reduce absorption.

How it works

Eltrombopag activates thrombopoietin receptors on bone-marrow cells. This promotes the development of megakaryocytes and production of platelets; in aplastic anaemia it can also support other blood-cell lineages.

Side effects

Headache, nausea, diarrhoea, tiredness and raised liver enzymes can occur. Jaundice, dark urine, sudden chest pain, breathlessness, one-sided leg swelling or new neurological symptoms need urgent attention because liver injury and blood clots are important risks.

Important information

Platelet counts and liver tests are monitored during treatment and after dose changes. Tell your doctor about liver disease, previous blood clots, cataracts and medicines such as statins. Bleeding can recur when treatment stops as platelet counts fall again. Pregnancy and breastfeeding require a treatment-specific discussion.