Eltrombopag

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using eltrombopag and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

There are different brands and forms of eltrombopag available, and the doses may be different. Do not change brands or forms without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Take it without a meal or with a meal low in calcium (50 milligrams or less). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for details.

Take this medication at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking any products that contain magnesium, aluminum, or calcium-rich foods (containing more than 50 milligrams calcium). Some examples include antacids, dairy products (such as milk, yogurt), calcium-enriched juice, vitamins/minerals, quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), and sucralfate. Follow the same instructions with bismuth subsalicylate, iron, selenium, and zinc. These products may keep eltrombopag from working well.

The manufacturer directs not to split, chew, or crush the tablet before taking it, and not to mix it with food or liquid. However, many similar drugs (immediate-release tablets) can be split, chewed, or crushed. Follow your doctor's directions on how to take this medication. The manufacturer also states that the powder from the tablet may stain surfaces.

If you are using the suspension powder, read the manufacturer's Instructions for Use before you start using this medication. Ask your health care provider if you have any questions. Carefully follow the directions to mix and use each dose. Use the provided mixing bottle to mix each dose with cool or cold water. Gently and slowly shake the mixing bottle for at least 20 seconds to mix the water with the powder. After mixing, give this medication right away. Use the provided special measuring device (oral syringe) to prepare and give each dose. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Do not re-use the oral syringe. Use a new oral syringe for each dose. If not used right away, the mixed medication may be stored at room temperature for up to 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, throw away any unused mixture, or any mixture left in the bottle. Clean the mixing supplies as directed.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and lab tests. Your doctor will order blood tests (platelet counts) to find the right dose for you. Keep all medical/lab appointments. Follow your doctor's directions carefully. If you are of East-Asian/Southeast-Asian descent or if you have liver problems, your doctor may direct you to start with a lower dose because you may be more sensitive to its effects.

Your risk of bleeding may increase when you stop using eltrombopag. After your last dose, your doctor should order a blood test once a week for at least 4 weeks to check your platelet count. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any bleeding/bruising.

Ask your doctor if you should continue taking your other medications for ITP (such as corticosteroids, azathioprine, danazol) while you are using eltrombopag.

Tell your doctor if your condition (bleeding/bruising) does not get better or if it gets worse.