Description

Elopag (Eltrombopag) – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Precautions

Elopag is a prescription medication containing Eltrombopag, a thrombopoietin (TPO) receptor agonist used to treat medical conditions associated with low platelet counts. By stimulating the bone marrow, it increases platelet production and helps reduce the risk of bleeding.

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Key Indications of Elopag

Elopag is commonly prescribed for:

• Chronic Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): For adults and children with persistent or chronic ITP who have not responded to other treatments.

• Hepatitis C-Associated Thrombocytopenia: Helps manage low platelet counts in patients receiving antiviral therapy.

• Severe Aplastic Anemia: Used alone or in combination with standard immunosuppressive therapy to stimulate platelet production.

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Mechanism of Action

• Elopag binds to the thrombopoietin receptor (TPO-R) on bone marrow cells.

• Activates the JAK/STAT signaling pathway to promote platelet production.

• Enhances the body’s natural TPO activity without triggering unwanted pathways like AKT.

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Recommended Dosage & Administration

• General Rule: Take Elopag once daily on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals).

• ITP (Adults): Starting dose is usually 50 mg daily, adjusted based on platelet counts.

• ITP (Children ≥2 years): Dose varies by age and weight, starting as low as 2.5 mg/kg.

• Hepatitis C patients: Recommended starting dose is 25 mg daily, with adjustments.

• Severe Aplastic Anemia: Doses range from 2.5 mg/kg in children up to 150 mg in adults, depending on age and weight.

⚠️ Important: Avoid taking Elopag with calcium-rich foods or supplements (milk, cheese, antacids, iron, zinc, magnesium). Take Elopag 2 hours before or 4 hours after these products.

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Side Effects of Elopag

Like all medicines, Elopag may cause side effects. Common and serious reactions include:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Muscle aches

• Elevated liver enzymes

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Toxicity: Requires regular monitoring of ALT, AST, and bilirubin.

• Thrombosis Risk: May increase risk of blood clots, especially in patients with liver disease.

• Allergic Reactions: Difficulty breathing, swelling, rash, or itching.

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Warnings & Precautions

• Liver Monitoring: Regular blood tests are required to check liver function.

• Drug Interactions: Avoid use with antacids, calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and certain medicines like bosentan, statins, and methotrexate.

• Pregnancy & Children: Not recommended during pregnancy or in children under 1 year.

• Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS): Contraindicated due to risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

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Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C (86°F).

• Keep in original packaging, away from light and moisture.

• Keep out of reach of children.

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Why Choose Elopag?

• Boosts Platelet Production: Reduces bleeding risk in patients with low platelet counts.

• Multiple Indications: Effective in ITP, hepatitis C-related thrombocytopenia, and severe aplastic anemia.

• Oral Tablet: Convenient compared to injectable therapies.

• Flexible Dosing: Adjusted according to individual patient needs.

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Manufacturer

Elopag (Eltrombopag) is manufactured by Everest Pharmaceuticals Ltd and is available in 25 mg and 50 mg strengths.