What you need to know about Avatrombopag (Doptelet) for people with low platelets

Your doctor may have told you to start taking Avatrombopag. Or maybe someone in your family has been prescribed this medication. The name may sound a bit strange. But don't worry, this medication is often available under the brand name Doptelet. In this article, we will talk very simply about what this medication is, what it does, and what we need to be careful about when using it.

Simply put, what kind of medicine is this?

Avatrombopag is a medicine that is given to increase the number of platelets in your body when they are low. Now you may be wondering what these platelets are. It's very simple. When you have a wound somewhere in your body and start bleeding, these platelets are the small cells in our blood that help stop the bleeding.

So, some medical conditions can cause a decrease in the number of blood platelets. Mainly:

• For those with liver disease .
• In a condition where blood platelets are destroyed due to a problem with the immune system (Immune Thrombocytopenia - ITP).

In cases like this, because the platelet count is low, even a small injury can cause major bleeding. Avatrombopag works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more platelets. This reduces the risk of bleeding.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Your doctor will ask you a few questions before giving you this medicine. However, it is very important for you to inform your doctor about these facts as well. Because it greatly affects your safety.

How should I use the medicine?

The way to use this is very simple, but it is very important to do it in the correct order.

• This pill should be taken orally with water .
• The most important thing is, you should always take this with a meal. Don't take it on an empty stomach.
• Get into the habit of taking your medicine at the same time every day. That way, you won't forget and the medicine will work better.
• Continue taking this medicine until your doctor tells you to stop. Do not stop suddenly, even if you feel better.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have accidentally taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Other things that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)

Some other medicines you take may interact with Avatrombopag. This means that it may change how the medicine works or increase its side effects. For example:

• Some medications for fungal infections (e.g. fluconazole, itraconazole)
• Rifampin, a medicine for tuberculosis

This list is not complete. Therefore,Tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins, nutritional supplements, Ayurvedic medicines, and herbal remedies). It's also important to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.

Possible side effects of the medicine

As with any medication, there is a small chance of side effects. Not everyone gets them, but it's important to be aware of them.

This list does not include all side effects. If you notice anything unusual in addition to these, tell your doctor about it.

How do you store and dispose of the medicine?

• Keep it safe, out of the reach of children and pets.
• Store at a temperature between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius (normal room temperature). Do not store in the fridge.
• Do not use expired medicine.
• If you need to get rid of expired or unwanted medications, ask your doctor about the best way to dispose of them. You may be able to take the pills out of the container, mix them with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, put them in a tightly sealed bag, and throw them in the trash. But check with your doctor to make sure it's safe.