Eltrombopag

Promacta is indicated for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in adults and pediatric patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) who have had an insufficient response to corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, or splenectomy; for the treatment of severe aplastic anemia in patients who have had an insufficient response to immunosuppressive therapy; and for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in patients with chronic hepatitis C to allow them to initiate and maintain interferon-based therapy.

Promacta is a thrombopoietin receptor agonist that binds to and activates the thrombopoietin receptor on bone marrow cells, stimulating the proliferation and differentiation of megakaryocytes, which are the cells that produce platelets. This leads to increased platelet production and higher platelet counts in the bloodstream.

Promacta should be taken on an empty stomach at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after foods, supplements, or antacids containing calcium, aluminum, magnesium, iron, selenium, or zinc. Regular blood monitoring is required to check platelet counts and liver function. Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, headache, and muscle pain. Patients should be monitored for liver problems and signs of bleeding. This medication may increase the risk of liver or bone marrow problems in some patients.