Eltrombopag: how to take it safely
Promacta, Revolade
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Raises low platelet counts in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), hepatitis C and aplastic anaemia.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow the tablet whole with water.
When to take it
Take it once a day at the same time.
Take it with
On an empty stomach, 2 hours before or 4 hours after food, antacids, calcium or iron.
What to avoid
- Dairy foods, calcium, iron, antacids or supplements within 4 hours of your dose.
- Missing your liver and blood tests.
- Pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver problems or an Asian background (the dose may need adjusting).
Possible side effects
Headache, nausea, diarrhoea, tiredness, raised liver tests.
Get help if
Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, a swollen painful leg, chest pain, or severe stomach pain: see a doctor straight away.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.