What is Promacta used for
Promacta, with the generic name eltrombopag olamine, is a thrombopoietin receptor agonist. It is used to treat low blood platelet counts in conditions such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, or severe aplastic anemia (SAA).
This drug is given to individuals one year old and above to help increase platelet counts to decrease the risk for bleeding together with other medications.
How does Promacta work?
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is another name for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. ITP has no recognized etiology. According to studies, it arises from an immune system impairment following a viral infection. While adults can develop chronic ITP, children frequently recover without medical intervention.
ITP carries a significant risk of bleeding since there are not enough platelets to support clotting. The platelets are in charge of halting the bleeding by assembling at the site of the injury and forming a scab. If your immune system is not functioning well, it will send antibodies to bind to your platelets and tell your body to attack them. It then raises your risk of bleeding since it reduces the number of circulating platelets.
Promacta’s mechanism of action works by stimulating bone marrow into producing more platelets. Bone marrow is the one responsible for generating red blood cells (RBSs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. This medication boosts your bone marrow by producing more platelets, helping to improve your ability to clot, thereby reducing your risk for bleeding.
Promacta Dosage
The Promacta dose varies from person to person, depending on the severity of your condition, age, and tolerance therapy. This drug is available in tablet formulation with a strength of 25 mg and 50 mg.
Promacta 50 mg once daily is the recommended dose for adults with long-term ITP who have low platelet counts. However, 25 mg once daily is the usual amount for kids aged one to five. The maximum daily dose is 75 mg and can be changed based on platelet counts.
Patients with chronic hepatitis C are advised to take 25 mg once daily, with a maximum intake of 100 mg.
For six months, a daily dose of 150 mg of SAA is recommended for patients 12 years of age and older. The average intake for children aged 6 to 11 is 75 mg, whereas for children aged 2 to 5 is 2.5 mg/kg every six months.
If SAA patients do not respond to the above treatment, the recommended dose is 50 mg daily, with a maximum intake of 150 mg.
Directions on how to use Promacta
Make sure to read and understand the drug instructions in the provided leaflet. You may ask for assistance from your primary care physician for clarifications and inquiries.
As prescribed, take this drug orally once daily without regard to meals or one to two hours after a meal. Swallow this medication whole, do not crush, bite or chew it.
Take eltrombopag olamine regularly to avoid missing a dose. Try setting a reminder on your phone to make sure you don’t forget to take a pill.
Promacta side effects
The following are the common side effects of eltrombopag olamine which go away with time:
- Nausea
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Anemia
- Flu-like symptoms (stuffy or runny nose, sneezing)
- Urinary tract infection
- Inflammation and swelling of throat and mouth
If the symptoms above worsen and if you develop the following adverse reactions, call your doctor immediately:
- Liver damage: dark urine or stool, fatigue, confusion, yellowing of the skin and eyes, stomach swelling
- Abdominal pain
- Skin redness, pain, or swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Difficulty speaking
- Numbness (one side of the body)
Note that this is not the complete list of the health implications related to this medication.
Precautions when using Promacta
Before taking this medication, let your doctor know if you have a blood clot, liver disease, cataract, or splenectomy. Doing so will make them know if eltrombopag olamine is safe for you.
Do not use this drug if allergic to eltrombopag olamine or other components. Be alert for allergic reactions when taking this drug (rashes, hives, swelling of the face and lips, throat tightness, or difficulty breathing).
Inform your doctor about your medications and vitamins, especially if you take antacids, as this can interfere with the drug’s effectiveness.
When taking this drug, make sure to check your bone marrow cells, medical laboratory test, or liver function.
Exercise caution to prevent cuts and injuries four weeks after you stop taking this medicine. Every week, your blood must be tested.
How much does Promacta cost?
The price of Promacta varies depending on its strength. The cost of this medication is relatively reasonable given its effectiveness; you can buy this drug in our online drugstore for a fast transaction.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Nplate vs Promacta?
Both drugs belong to thrombopoietin receptor agonists. The former contains romiplostim, while the latter has an active ingredient of eltrombopag olamine. Nplate is given as an injection (SQ) weekly, while Promacta is available in tablet and sachet formulation taken daily.
Is Promacta used for ITP?
Promacta for ITP is the first treatment of choice. It can stimulate your bone marrow by producing more platelets, helping to improve your ability to clot, thereby reducing your risk for bleeding.
Is Promacta safe for pregnant and lactating women?
No, make sure to use an effective contraceptive pill when taking Promacta. This drug passes through breast milk, which can harm your baby.
