Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Anagrelide is prescribed to reduce the platelet count (a vital blood cell type responsible for clotting regulation) in individuals with a bone marrow disorder. This condition involves an overproduction of one or more types of blood cells, as seen in disorders like essential thrombocythemia or polycythemia vera. Anagrelide falls into the category of medications known as platelet-reducing agents, functioning by impeding the production of platelets in the body.
Uses and Dosage
Anagrelide is administered in capsule form for oral intake, typically with or without food, two to four times a day.
Maintain a consistent daily schedule for taking anagrelide. Strictly follow the prescribed dosage, avoiding deviations such as taking more or less than directed, or exceeding the recommended frequency.
Initiating with a low dose, your doctor may gradually adjust the dosage, but not more frequently than once a week. Dose adjustments may be made based on your body’s response to the medication. Adhere closely to these guidelines.
While anagrelide can help manage your condition, it does not offer a cure. Continue taking anagrelide even if you feel well. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor, as abrupt cessation may lead to an increase in platelet count, potentially causing symptoms.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- headache
- gas
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- constipation
- stomach pain
- heartburn
- belching
- loss of appetite
- runny nose
- nosebleed
- sore throat
- mouth sores
- dizziness
- depression
- nervousness
- forgetfulness
- confusion
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash
- hives
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- blood in urine or stool
- black or tarry stools
- chest pain
- fluttering sensation in the chest
- fast, forceful, or irregular heartbeats
- swelling of the arms, hands, feet, ankles or lower legs
- difficulty breathing
- cough
- slow or difficult speech
- fainting
- weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
- pain, burning, or tingling in the hands or feet
- seizure
Caution
- Before initiating anagrelide treatment, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any allergies to it or other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could lead to allergic reactions or other complications.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of heart problems, lung issues, kidney problems, or liver conditions.
- Be cautious as this drug may induce dizziness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana may intensify this effect. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can safely do so.
- Anagrelide has the potential to cause a heart rhythm disorder known as QT prolongation, which may rarely lead to serious (and occasionally fatal) rapid/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms necessitating immediate medical attention, such as severe dizziness or fainting.
- The risk of QT prolongation may be heightened if you have specific medical conditions or if you are taking other medications that could induce QT prolongation. Before commencing anagrelide, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking and disclose if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), or a family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also elevate the risk of QT prolongation. This risk may escalate if you are using certain drugs (such as diuretics/”water pills”) or if you are experiencing conditions like severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Discuss the safe use of anagrelide with your doctor.
- Elderly individuals may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication, particularly QT prolongation.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only if absolutely necessary, and discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is uncertain whether this drug passes into breast milk. Due to potential risks to the infant, refrain from breastfeeding while using this medication and for one week after discontinuation.
Form and Strength
Agrylin is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Agrylin capsule:
- 0.5 mg
- anagrelide capsule:
- 0.5 mg
FAQ
Is Agrylin a chemo drug?
No, Agrylin is not considered a chemotherapy medication even though it is used in certain blood cancers.
Is Agrylin an anticoagulant?
No, Agrylin is not an anticoagulant. Medications that prevent blood clots belong to 2 different drug classes.
Resources:
- https://www.goodrx.com/agrylin/what-is
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601020.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1038/agrylin-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/anagrelide-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20061875?p=1
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/agrylin
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/agrylin.html
