Let's learn about Mitapivat (PYRUKYND) tablets in simple terms (Mitapivat Tablets)

Do you or someone you know have hemolytic anemia caused by an enzyme deficiency called pyruvate kinase deficiency? This is a rare condition. In such cases, your doctor may have prescribed you a pill called Mitapivat. You may feel a little confused when you hear this name. So, today we will talk simply and kindly about this medicine called Mitapivat (brand name PYRUKYND).

Simply put, what is this Mitapivat?

Mitapivat is a special medication that is given to treat hemolytic anemia caused by a condition called pyruvate kinase deficiency. Now you may be wondering, "What is hemolytic anemia?"

It's very simple. We have a type of blood cell called red blood cells in our body. These cells carry oxygen throughout our body. Normally, these red blood cells live for about 120 days. However, in the body of a person with pyruvate kinase deficiency, these red blood cells break down and are destroyed a little earlier, more quickly. That's what's called hemolytic anemia.

So, what Mitapivat does is stop the rapid breakdown of red blood cells. To be precise, it gives those cells energy and increases their lifespan . What does this do?

• The number of red blood cells in the body increases.
• Symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, frequent fatigue , and shortness of breath are reduced.
• The need for frequent blood transfusions is also reduced.

That means this medicine will help improve your quality of life .

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before using any medicine, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Before you start taking Mitapivat, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Liver disease: If you have any pre-existing liver disease, please tell us about it.
• Allergies : If you have an allergic reaction to Mitapivat, or to any other medicine, food, dye, or preservative, be sure to let us know.
• Pregnancy : If you are pregnant or are trying to get pregnant soon, talk to your doctor about it.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, you should also tell the doctor.

Based on this information, your doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or whether the dosage needs to be changed.

How to use the medicine correctly?

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

• This medicine is a pill that you take by mouth. Try to take it at the same time every day , exactly as your doctor has prescribed.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Never break, crush, or chew the tablet.
• Continue taking this medicine until your doctor tells you to stop. Do not stop suddenly, even if you feel better.
• Special care may be required if this medicine is given to children. Therefore, follow the doctor's instructions accordingly.

What to do if you take too much medicine? (Overdosage)

Imagine that you have accidentally taken more of this medicine than the prescribed dose. If that happens, do not delay. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

What if I miss a dose of medication?

With the busyness of life, sometimes you may miss a dose of medicine. If that happens, here's what to do:

• Take your medicine as soon as you remember.
• However, if you miss a dose by more than 4 hours, skip that dose completely. Take your next dose at the scheduled time.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose for any reason.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine

Some medications you take may interact with Mitapivat. This may change how Mitapivat works or increase side effects. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and medications prescribed by other doctors) .

Below are some medications that may interact with Mitapivat.

Important: This list is not exhaustive. Tell your doctor if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs.

Things to be careful about when taking medicine

While you are taking this medicine, your doctor will regularly check your health.

• Attend scheduled clinic appointments. This is very important to see how you are doing and if the medication is working.
• If your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse, tell your doctor.
• You may be asked to have blood work done while taking this medication. Do not skip these tests and get them done regularly.

What are the possible side effects?

Like all medicines, Mitapivat can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Some side effects can be serious, so it is important to be aware of them.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience any other, unusual symptoms, talk to your doctor about them.

How to store medicine safely?

• Keep out of reach of children and pets .
• Store at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius).
• Keep the medicine in the original container it was received in.
• Never use expired medications . Dispose of them safely.

When getting rid of expired or unwanted medications, it's best to consult your doctor. It may be best to throw them in the trash. If so, take the pills out of the bottle, mix them with something like used coffee grounds, soil, or cat litter, and put them in a tightly sealed bag and throw them in the trash.

Mitapivat Sinhala, PYRUKYND Sinhala, hemolytic anemia Sinhala, pyruvate kinase deficiency, anemia medicine, red blood cells, Mitapivat side effects