Avatrombopag is used to treat low platelet counts in individuals with long-term liver disease before having a medical procedure where there is a risk of bleeding.
It is also used to treat low platelet counts due to chronic immune thrombocytopenia (a bleeding disorder in which platelets are mistakenly attacked and destroyed by the immune system) when a previous treatment has not worked well enough.
Take Avatrombopag exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it together with food or immediately after a meal. Try to take it at the same time each day.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on the type of your disease and your response to the medication.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- blood clot disorder or risk factors for thromboembolism (blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot) e.g. have had to stay in bed for prolonged periods, cancer, recent surgery or injury, obese, smoking
- severe liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Individual's genetic traits are unique from each other. Researchers say that certain genetic traits can enhance this drug's side effect, particularly effect on heart rhythm. Though not routinely done, but in some exceptional cases, your doctor may advise you to undergo genetic testing to check if this drug is best suited for you.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Routine blood test may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have this test. Regular monitoring of signs and symptoms of blood clots may also be needed.
Avatrombopag may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, back pain, muscle and joint pain, pain in the hands or legs, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach wind, tiredness, and purple or red spots in the skin.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- swelling, pain, or tenderness in the legs
- shortness of breath, chest pain, fast heartbeat
- unusual bruising or bleeding
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- fluconazole (medicine to treat fungal infection)
- rifampicin (medicine to treat TB, a lung infection known as tuberculosis)
- enzalutamide (medicine for prostate cancer)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Avatrombopag.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.