What is It?
Eltrombopag Olamine is a prescription medication used to stimulate the production of platelets, the blood cells responsible for clotting, thereby reducing the risk of bleeding in certain blood disorders. It belongs to a class known as thrombopoietin receptor agonists.
---
Indications
Eltrombopag is commonly prescribed for:
Chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in adults and children (1 year or older) when other treatments (e.g. steroids, immunoglobulins, splenectomy) haven’t worked well enough.
Thrombocytopenia associated with chronic hepatitis C (to allow initiation or continuation of interferon-based treatment when platelet levels are low)
Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) as part of first-line therapy in patients 2 years and older, or in those who have failed other treatments.
---
How It Works
Eltrombopag binds to the thrombopoietin (TPO) receptor on bone marrow cells, stimulating them to produce platelets.
---
Dosage & Administration
Age / Condition Typical Starting Dose* Maximum / Notes
Adults with ITP 50 mg once daily Adjust weekly or every 2 weeks depending on platelet count; do not exceed ~75 mg/day.
Children (6-17 yrs) with ITP Same as adults in many cases, adjusted for weight/response.
Children (1-5 yrs) Lower starting dose (e.g. 25 mg/day) depending on weight.
Hepatitis C-associated thrombocytopenia Often start lower (e.g. 25 mg/day) to allow safe interferon therapy.
Severe Aplastic Anemia In first-line treatment, higher doses may be used (e.g. up to 150 mg/day) over 6 months under specialist supervision.
> *Always follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions. Doses are adjusted based on platelet response and any side effects. Blood work is needed regularly.
---
Warnings & Precautions
Liver monitoring: Eltrombopag can cause elevated liver enzymes and liver injury. Periodic liver function tests are required.
Risk of thrombosis (blood clots): There is a risk, especially if platelet count becomes too high or if other risk factors exist.
Contraindications / Cautions: Patients with severe hepatic impairment, certain other blood disorders (e.g. myelodysplastic syndromes), pregnancy, etc., should be evaluated carefully.
Drug Interactions: Antacids, supplements containing calcium, magnesium, aluminum, iron, zinc, or selenium may interfere. Timing of dosing around such products is important (often avoid taking them close to one another).
Vision monitoring: There may be risk for cataracts or other eye-related changes, so periodic eye exams are advised.
---
Common Side Effects
Some side effects are more common and mild; others more serious. Here are examples:
Common: nausea, headache, tiredness, cough, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fever.
Serious: signs of liver dysfunction (yellowing skin/eyes, dark urine), blood clots, excessive bleeding, vision changes, chest pain, swelling of legs.
---
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Keep out of reach of children.
For oral suspension (powder), reconstitute only as instructed, use promptly, dispose of any unused mixed suspension if not used within the recommended time.
Important Notes for Your Customers
Prescription only: Eltrombopag is available by prescription and should be taken under medical supervision.
Regular monitoring required: Lab tests (blood counts, liver function) must be done before start, frequently during dose adjustment, and at other prescribed intervals.
Adherence to instructions essential: Do not change or stop doses without doctor advice.
Report side effects: If you notice unusual bruising, bleeding, yellow eyes, or any severe symptoms, stop the drug and seek medical advice.
