Let's learn about the pill Fostamatinib. Has this been prescribed for you too?

Sometimes when our bodies bleed, there is a type of small cell that helps stop it, we call them platelets. In some medical conditions, especially in a condition called `Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP),` which is caused by a problem with the immune system, the number of these platelets can become dangerously low. So when this condition is difficult to control with other treatments, your doctor may prescribe you a medicine called `Fostamatinib.` Okay, so today we will talk about this medicine in simple terms.

Simply put, what is Fostamatinib?

Fostamatinib is a special medicine given to people with the condition `Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP).` It works by increasing the production of platelets in your body and restoring their number to normal. This greatly reduces the risk of unnecessary bleeding.

This medicine is usually sold under the brand name Tavalisse in Sri Lanka. However, no matter what name the doctor prescribes, it contains the same active ingredient, `Fostamatinib`.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication

Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she will need to have a complete picture of your health. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor.

• If you have high blood pressure: This medicine can sometimes cause your blood pressure to rise, so it is important to inform your doctor about this in advance.
• If you have liver disease: This medicine is cleared from the body through the liver. So if you have liver disease, your doctor may need to adjust the dosage.
• If you have had an allergy to fostamatinib or any other medicine, food, or dye: It is very important to tell us about any allergies you have had in the past.
• If you are trying to get pregnant or are currently pregnant: The safety of this medicine during pregnancy has not yet been fully established. Therefore, you should talk to your doctor about this.
• If you are breastfeeding: There is limited information about whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Therefore, your doctor will decide whether to use it during breastfeeding.

How should I use the medicine?

To get the most out of a medication, it is essential to use it correctly.

• Swallow this pill with a glass of water.
• Try to take your medicine at the same time every day , as prescribed by your doctor. This will help maintain consistent levels of the medicine in your body.
• You can take it before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset or nausea after taking the medicine, taking it with a meal can help reduce the discomfort.
• Do not stop taking the medication for any reason until your doctor says, "Enough is enough. " Continue taking it even if your symptoms improve.
• If you are giving this medicine to children , special care should be taken. So talk to your doctor about it.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

Don't worry. If you miss a dose, skip it altogether. Take your next dose at the usual time. Never take two pills at once to make up for a forgotten dose.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice. This medicine has been prescribed for you only, do not share it with others.

Side effects to be aware of when taking medication

Like all medicines, Fostamatinib can cause some side effects, although not everybody gets them. Some of them can be serious, so it's important to be aware of them.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine

It is very important that your doctor is aware of all the medications you are taking. Some medications may interact with Fostamatinib, changing its effectiveness or increasing its side effects. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications:

• Digoxin
• Ketoconazole
• Rifampin
• Rosuvastatin
• Simvastatin
• Verapamil

This list is not complete. Tell your doctor about any vitamins, herbal products, pain relievers, or other medications you are taking. Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol .

What else should you keep in mind during treatment?

• Regular check-ups: Your doctor will want to see you regularly to monitor your treatment progress. He or she will also order blood tests to check your platelet count and liver function. Don't skip these tests.
• Driving and operating machinery: This medication may make some people feel drowsy or dizzy . Therefore, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Get up slowly: When getting up from a sitting or lying position, get up slowly rather than abruptly. This can reduce the risk of dizziness and falling.
• Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking this medication may increase side effects, so be careful.

How to store and dispose of medicine safely?

• Keep away from children and pets.
• Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius).
• Keep the medicine in the original bottle it came in, with the lid tightly closed. Protect from moisture. Do not remove the small desiccant packets (canisters) inside the bottle.
• After the expiration date or 60 days after opening the bottle , discard any remaining medicine.
• The best way to get rid of unused medications is to donate them to a "take-back program" operated by a hospital or pharmacy. Ask your doctor about this.
• If that's not possible, take the pills out of the bottle, mix them with something like used coffee grounds, soil, or cat litter, put them in a bag, seal it, and throw them in the trash.