Nplate

Nplate injection is a fusion protein analog of thrombopoietin used for the treatment of thrombocytopenia and prevention of bleeding in patients with a blood disorder called chronic immune thrombocytopenia.

This drug is used post-splenectomy or when other drugs, such as steroids or immunoglobulins, have proven to be ineffective.

Platelets aid in blood clotting. This drug works by stimulating the bone marrow to increase production of platelets. This drug is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your healthcare professional.

Before using Nplate, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications.

Studies in children regarding the correlation of age to the effects of romiplostim injection have not been performed while safety and efficacy have not been established. Studies in the elderly have not demonstrated any geriatric-specific problems that would limit the utility of romiplostim injection.

Adjustments in the dose of the elderly may be required since they are more likely to have age-related kidney, liver, or heart problems. Adverse effects have been reported in animal studies but studies in pregnant women or animals are still inadequate. Infant risk is still undetermined when using this drug during breastfeeding.

Discuss with your healthcare professional about potential risks and benefits of taking this drug while breastfeeding. Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.

Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription drugs. Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects.

Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco. Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as bleeding problems, blood cancer, blood clots, bone marrow problems, liver disease, or thrombocytopenia caused by myelodysplastic syndrome.

Proper usage of Nplate requires strict adherence to your doctor’s orders. A trained healthcare professional will be the only one to give you this drug.

This drug is injected under your skin once a week. Call your health care professional or pharmacist for instructions if you missed a dose.

Before using Nplate, there are some precautions you must take. Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the drug.

Unwanted effects can be screened using blood tests. Blood clotting problems have been associated with the use of this drug. Check with your healthcare professional immediately if you have pain, swelling, or tenderness in your leg, or shortness of breath and pain in your chest.

Check with your healthcare professional before you stop receiving this drug as stopping this drug suddenly may cause the number of platelets to go below the number you had before you started receiving the drug which will increase your risk for bleeding.

Your healthcare professional will monitor your platelet levels and progress when you stop receiving the drug. Portal vein thrombosis can occur while receiving this drug, especially in patients with low platelet counts caused by liver problems.

Check with your healthcare professional immediately if you have abdominal or stomach pain, blood in the stool, or if you are vomiting blood.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Nplate. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.

Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:

• Black, Tarry stools
• Bleeding gums
• Blood in the urine or stools
• Burning, Crawling, Itching, Numbness, Prickling, "Pins and Needles", or Tingling feelings
• Difficulty with breathing
• Pain in the chest, groin, or legs, especially the calves
• Pinpoint red spots on the skin
• Severe, sudden headache
• Slurred speech
• Sudden loss of coordination
• Sudden, severe weakness or numbness in the arm or leg
• Sudden, unexplained shortness of breath
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Vision changes

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

If any of the following side effects persists or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.