Promacta (Eltrombopag Olamine)

Indications

Promacta is a prescription medicine that is indicated for the treatment of thrombocytopenia (a low blood platelet count) in adults and pediatric patients over 1 year . It can also be used to treat older patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) who have had an insufficient response to corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, or surgery, or have had their spleen removed. It is a medication that works to stimulate the bone marrow of patients, helping them to produce more platelets in their blood.

Promacta is a man-made form of a protein that increases production of platelets (blood-clotting cells) in your body. Eltrombopag can lower the risk of bleeding by increasing platelets in your blood. It works by increasing the number of platelets in the blood. It does this by binding to a receptor in the liver and stimulating the production of a hormone called thrombopoietin, which is involved in producing platelets.

Uses and Dosage

To take Promacta tablet orally, follow the instructions given by your doctor, which typically involves taking it once daily. Do not take it with a meal or alongside any products containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium-rich foods with over 50 milligrams of calcium. Also, ensure you take it at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after consuming such products. Do not split, chew, or crush the tablet, nor mix it with any food or liquid.

The recommended dose of Promacta (eltrombopag olamine) may vary depending on the individual patient and the specific condition being treated.

• The starting dose for most patients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is 50 mg once daily, and the dose can be increased by 25 mg per day every 2 weeks based on the patient's platelet count. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 75 mg per day.
• For patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA), the recommended dose is 150 mg once daily for 6 months. However, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate and personalized dosing recommendation as individual factors must be considered.
• For severe aplastic anemia treatment, the recommended dosage is 150mg once daily for 6 months.

Side Effect

Common Side Effects of Promacta (Eltrombopag Olamine):

• Abnormal liver function tests
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Headache
• Low red blood cell count (anemia)
• Nausea
• Tiredness

Serious Side Effects of Promacta (Eltrombopag Olamine):

• Cataracts
• Hepatic Decompensation in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis
• Hepatotoxicity
• High platelet counts and higher risk for blood clots
• Increased Risk of Death and Progression of Myelodysplastic Syndromes to Acute Myeloid Leukemia
• New or worsened cataracts (a clouding of the lens in the eye)
• Thrombotic/Thromboembolic Complications

Form and Strength

Promacta (Eltrombopag Olamine) is available in the following forms and strength:

Promacta: Tablet

• 25 mg
• 50 mg

Caution

• Promacta may harm an unborn baby and should not be taken during pregnancy unless clearly needed. It is not known if Promacta passes into breast milk, so women should consult their doctor before breastfeeding while taking Promacta.
• The reoccurrence of thrombocytopenia is possible upon discontinuing treatment. In some cases, medications such as Promacta may increase the risk of serious blood cancer and death in patients.
• Take Promacta on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Do not take this medication with milk. Avoid all dairy products or products that contain calcium (including fortified fruit juice) for at least 4 hours before or after you take Promacta.
• This statement warns that the medication PROMACTA can lead to hepatotoxicity, as evidenced by increases in serum aminotransferase levels and bilirubin. Measure liver chemistries before starting treatment and regularly during treatment to monitor liver function.
• If you are suffering from chronic hepatitis C, taking Promacta alongside ribavirin and interferon treatment may enhance the occurrence of liver issues. Tell your physician without delay if you experience any signs of liver problems such as nausea, upper stomach pain, confusion, fatigue, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
• If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor. Do not get pregnant while using eltrombopag as it may harm the unborn child. While using eltrombopag and for 7 days after stopping treatment, inquire about reliable forms of birth control. If you become pregnant, immediately talk to your doctor about the associated risks and benefits of this medication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are there any medications that interact with Promacta?

Certain medications may interact with Promacta, including some antibiotics, antifungal drugs, and anticonvulsant medications. Patients should inform their doctor about all medications they are taking before starting Promacta.

How long does it take for Promacta to work?

Promacta may take several weeks to start working for some patients, and the time it takes to see results can vary depending on the individual. Patients should continue to take their medication as prescribed and follow up with their doctor regularly to monitor their response to treatment.

Can Promacta be taken with food or on an empty stomach?

Promacta can be taken with or without food, as directed by the doctor.

Can Promacta be used in patients with liver problems?

Promacta is metabolized in the liver and caution should be used when administering Promacta to patients with liver problems. Patients should discuss any liver problems or concerns with their doctor before taking Promacta.

Is Promacta a cure for thrombocytopenia?

Promacta is not a cure for thrombocytopenia, but rather a treatment option that can help increase the number of platelets in the blood. Patients with thrombocytopenia should continue to work closely with their doctor to manage their condition and monitor their response to treatment.

Resources

• https://www.drugs.com/promacta.html
• https://www.us.promacta.com/
• https://www.hcp.novartis.com/products/promacta/
• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/022291lbl.pdf
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=7714a0ed-34bb-46e6-a0a5-b363908b22c2
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-151608/promacta-oral/details