PROMACTA (ELTROMBOPAG)

Promacta Description

Promacta is an oral thrombopoietin (TPO)-receptor agonist that may be prescribed to you or a child at least six years of age to treat idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) also known as immune thrombocytopenic purpura. The exact cause of ITP is unknown. What is known is that it appears to occur in some adults as a result of a malfunction of the immune system and to certain children after a viral infection. Children usually recover without a need for treatment whereas ITP can become chronic in adults. The biggest risk of ITP is bleeding because there are insufficient platelets to help with clotting. Promacta is not a cure for ITP, but it will help to calm your worries of having uncontrolled bleeding.

When taken as directed, Promacta stimulates your bone marrow into producing more platelets. Your bone marrow is in charge of making red and white blood cells and platelets. It is the platelets that will help you stop bleeding by sticking together at the injured site and forming a scab. If your over-achieving immune system sends antibodies to attach to your platelets, your spleen sees the antibodies as a signal to remove the platelets. This reduces the amount of circulating platelets you have so Promacta steps in and encourages more platelets from your bone marrow, helping to improve your ability to clot.

Conditions Treated by Promacta

For those individuals who are undergoing radiation or chemotherapy, have a viral infection or an autoimmune disease, are taking certain medications, have been exposed to toxic chemicals, or factors are unknown (idiopathic), this may develop into aplastic anemia. Should this condition worsen and become severe, you may be recommended to take Promacta to help restore the level of blood cells so the risk of a clotting problem is decreased. Promacta (Eltrombopag Olamine) may also be prescribed for those with chronic hepatitis C to improve their platelet count so they are better equipped to endure their interferon-based treatments.

Before You Take Promacta

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding before taking Promacta. Giving birth can greatly increase your chances of bleeding and could become dire without Promacta. It may be advisable to take Promacta as the benefits could outweigh the risks. If you are not pregnant, you should use contraception. Nursing moms may be advised to bottle feed while taking Promacta to alleviate any unknown health risks to their baby.

Discuss other medical conditions and allergies you have and list all OTC and Rx drugs you are taking, including herbal preparations and vitamins or dietary supplements, so your physician can determine if Promacta is the right medication for you.

Warnings for Promacta

Be prepared to have regular blood tests performed as Promacta could cause serious and sometimes fatal liver problems. Dairy products, antacids, and some supplements should be taken at least four hours prior to or after taking Promacta. Take Promacta on an empty stomach, either one hour before a meal or two hours after. If you are scheduled for any dental or surgical procedures, inform the surgeon you are taking Promacta.

Possible Side Effects of Promacta

• Decreased appetite
• Swollen joints
• Muscle aches, pains, or cramping