There are some diseases, for which very specific types of medicines have to be used. So if you have been prescribed such a medicine, it is very important to be well informed about it. Mitapivat is one such special medicine. In this article today, we will talk about this medicine called Mitapivat, as simply as if we were talking to a friend.
What kind of medicine is Mitapivat?
Simply put, our blood contains red blood cells. These are the cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. Some people are born with a genetic condition that causes a deficiency in an enzyme called 'Pyruvate Kinase'. When this enzyme is low, the red blood cells break down prematurely and are destroyed. This condition is called 'hemolytic anemia' , which means anemia caused by the breakdown of red blood cells.
So, what this medicine called Mitapivat does is stop those red blood cells from breaking down too quickly. It also comes under the brand name `PYRUKYND`. This medicine stimulates the activity of that enzyme and increases the lifespan of the red blood cells. Therefore, anemia is controlled.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before starting this medication, it is essential to inform your doctor about some facts about your health condition. Only then can you decide exactly whether it is suitable for you and how to administer it.
| Situation you need to report | Why is that? (Importance) |
|---|---|
| Liver disease | This medication is cleared from the body through the liver, so if you have any liver disease, your dosage may need to be adjusted. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy not only to this Mitapivat medication, but also to any other medication, food, or dye, be sure to tell us about it. |
| Being pregnant or planning to be pregnant | If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby, you should talk to your doctor about how this medicine may affect the baby. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | Find out if the medicine can pass to the baby through breast milk, and inform your doctor if you are a breastfeeding mother. |
How should I use the medicine?
This is a pill to take by mouth. It is very important to take the exact dose as prescribed by your doctor.
- Take it on time: Whenever possible, try to take your medicine at the same time every day . This will help keep the levels of the medicine in your body consistent.
- Swallowing: This is the most important thing. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
- Don't stop: Don't stop taking your medicine until your doctor tells you to. It's important to keep taking your medicine, even if you feel better.
- If given to children: If this medicine is given to children, special care may be required. Follow the doctor's instructions exactly.
Attention: Overdosage
If you think you may have taken an overdose, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This is very important.
And remember, this medicine is prescribed for you only. Never share it with anyone else.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Forgetting to take a dose of medicine is something that can happen to anyone. If you do, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is more than 4 hours after the time you usually take it, skip the missed dose. Take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once to make up for a forgotten dose.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Mitapivat may interact with other medications you are taking, which could reduce the effectiveness of this medication or increase side effects.
| Type of medicine | Examples |
|---|---|
| Birth control pills | Birth control pills |
| Some fungicides | Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole |
| Medicines for HIV | Efavirenz |
| Sedative/sleeping medicine | Midazolam |
| Some medicines for tuberculosis | Rifampin |
This is not a complete list. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications, syrups, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. It is also important to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can have some side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| 🚨 Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| ✅ Tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome | |
| Back pain | Back pain |
| Joint pain | Joint pain |
If you experience any unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, please contact your doctor for advice.
How should you store the medicine?
- Keep away from children: Always keep medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
- Temperature: Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Protect from excessive heat or moisture.
- Original container: It is best to keep the medicine in the original bottle it was received in.
- Expired medications: Do not use medications after the expiration date. Dispose of expired or unwanted medications properly. Some hospital pharmacies may have programs to accept old medications. Alternatively, take the pills out of the bottle, mix them with something like used coffee grounds or soil, put them in a tightly sealed bag, and throw them in the trash. Never flush medications down the toilet for any reason.
Take-Home Message
- Mitapivat is a special medicine for anemia caused by Pyruvate Kinase deficiency. Take the prescribed dose as prescribed by your doctor.
- Never break, crush, or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and health conditions you are taking.
- If you miss a dose by more than 4 hours, skip that dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never double the dose.
- If you suspect an overdose, immediately go to the National Poisons Information Center or the nearest hospital ETU.
- If you experience sudden allergic symptoms (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing), seek medical advice immediately.
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