Eltrombopag Krka
Thrombopoietin receptor agonist for increasing platelet production
Eltrombopag Krka is a prescription thrombopoietin receptor agonist containing the active substance eltrombopag. It is used to increase platelet counts in patients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) who have not responded to other treatments, and in adults with chronic hepatitis C whose low platelet counts interfere with antiviral therapy. This medication stimulates the bone marrow to produce more platelets, reducing the risk of dangerous bleeding episodes.
Quick Facts
Key Takeaways
- Eltrombopag Krka stimulates platelet production and is used for immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in patients aged 1 year and older, and for thrombocytopenia associated with hepatitis C treatment.
- It must be taken on an empty stomach, with no dairy products, antacids, or mineral supplements for 4 hours before and 2 hours after the dose.
- Regular blood tests for platelet counts and liver function are essential throughout treatment, as hepatotoxicity and thromboembolic events are important risks.
- The usual adult starting dose for ITP is 50 mg daily (25 mg for East/Southeast Asian patients), with dose adjustments based on platelet response.
- Do not stop treatment without medical advice, as platelet counts can drop rapidly within days, increasing bleeding risk.
What Is Eltrombopag Krka and What Is It Used For?
Quick Answer: Eltrombopag Krka is a thrombopoietin receptor agonist that stimulates the bone marrow to produce more platelets. It is prescribed for immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and low platelet counts associated with chronic hepatitis C infection.
Eltrombopag Krka contains the active substance eltrombopag, which belongs to a class of medications known as thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs). These drugs mimic the action of the naturally occurring hormone thrombopoietin, which is the primary regulator of platelet production in the body. By binding to the thrombopoietin receptor on megakaryocytes and their precursor cells in the bone marrow, eltrombopag triggers signaling cascades that promote the growth and maturation of platelet-producing cells.
Platelets are small blood cells that play a critical role in hemostasis — the process of stopping bleeding. When platelet counts fall below normal levels (a condition called thrombocytopenia), patients face an increased risk of spontaneous bleeding. Symptoms can range from mild manifestations such as petechiae (tiny red or purple spots under the skin), easy bruising, and nosebleeds, to more serious events including gastrointestinal bleeding, heavy menstrual periods, or bleeding that is difficult to stop after injuries or surgical procedures.
Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)
Eltrombopag Krka is primarily indicated for the treatment of immune (primary) thrombocytopenia (ITP) in patients aged 1 year and older who have already received at least one prior therapy, such as corticosteroids or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), that has not achieved an adequate response. ITP is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own platelets, while also suppressing new platelet production in the bone marrow. Rather than suppressing the immune system like many ITP treatments, eltrombopag takes a different approach by directly stimulating increased platelet production to compensate for the accelerated destruction.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that eltrombopag can achieve a sustained platelet response in a significant proportion of patients with chronic ITP. The landmark RAISE trial, published in The Lancet, showed that 79% of eltrombopag-treated patients achieved platelet counts of 50,000/µL or higher during the 6-month treatment period, compared with 28% of placebo-treated patients. Furthermore, patients receiving eltrombopag had significantly reduced rates of bleeding events and a decreased need for rescue medications.
Thrombocytopenia in Hepatitis C
Eltrombopag Krka may also be used to treat low platelet counts in adults with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection who have experienced difficulties with interferon-based antiviral therapy. Many patients with hepatitis C develop thrombocytopenia, both as a consequence of liver disease (portal hypertension and hypersplenism) and as a side effect of certain antiviral medications. Low platelet counts can necessitate dose reductions or discontinuation of antiviral treatment, compromising the chances of achieving sustained virological response. By raising platelet counts, eltrombopag enables patients to initiate and maintain their full course of peginterferon and ribavirin therapy.
It is important to note that with the advent of direct-acting antiviral agents for hepatitis C, which do not typically cause thrombocytopenia, this indication has become less commonly used in clinical practice. However, it remains a valuable option in settings where interferon-based regimens are still employed.
What Should You Know Before Taking Eltrombopag Krka?
Quick Answer: You should not take Eltrombopag Krka if you are allergic to eltrombopag or any of its ingredients. Key precautions include liver disease, risk of blood clots, cataracts, and myelodysplastic syndrome. Regular blood tests and eye examinations are required throughout treatment.
Contraindications
The primary contraindication for Eltrombopag Krka is hypersensitivity (allergy) to eltrombopag or any of the excipients contained in the formulation. If you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to any thrombopoietin receptor agonist, inform your physician before starting treatment.
Warnings and Precautions
Before initiating Eltrombopag Krka, your physician should be informed about your complete medical history. Several conditions require special caution or additional monitoring during treatment.
- Swelling, pain, warmth, or tenderness in a leg (possible deep vein thrombosis)
- Sudden shortness of breath, especially with chest pain or rapid breathing (possible pulmonary embolism)
- Abdominal pain, enlarged abdomen, or blood in stool (possible abdominal blood clot)
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusually dark urine (possible liver damage)
Liver disease: Patients with pre-existing liver conditions, particularly advanced chronic liver disease, are at increased risk of adverse effects including life-threatening hepatotoxicity and thromboembolic complications. If your physician determines that the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks, you will be closely monitored throughout therapy with regular liver function tests. Eltrombopag is primarily metabolized by the liver, and dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with hepatic impairment.
Risk of blood clots (thrombosis): Thrombopoietin receptor agonists can increase the risk of venous and arterial thromboembolism, even at normal or low platelet counts. This risk is particularly elevated in patients who are elderly, bedridden for extended periods, have cancer, take oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, have recently undergone surgery or physical trauma, are significantly overweight, smoke, or have advanced chronic liver disease. Your physician will adjust the dose to prevent platelet counts from rising too high, which further increases thrombotic risk.
Cataracts: Cataracts (clouding of the eye lens) have been observed in patients taking eltrombopag and in preclinical animal studies. Your physician will recommend baseline eye examinations and regular follow-up assessments during treatment. If you notice any changes in vision, such as blurred or cloudy vision, report these promptly.
Bone marrow changes: In patients with underlying bone marrow abnormalities, medications like Eltrombopag Krka may worsen these conditions. Bone marrow fibrosis (formation of fibrous tissue) has been reported. Signs of bone marrow changes may appear as abnormal results on routine blood tests. Your physician may perform bone marrow biopsies during treatment to directly assess the health of your bone marrow.
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS): Before initiating Eltrombopag Krka, your physician will perform tests to ensure you do not have myelodysplastic syndrome, a group of disorders caused by abnormal blood cell production in the bone marrow. If MDS is present, eltrombopag may cause the condition to worsen, potentially including progression to acute myeloid leukemia.
Monitoring Requirements
Treatment with Eltrombopag Krka requires regular monitoring throughout the course of therapy:
- Platelet count monitoring: Blood tests to check platelet levels will be performed before starting treatment and at regular intervals throughout. After discontinuation, platelet counts will be monitored weekly for at least 4 weeks, as counts typically return to pre-treatment levels within days.
- Liver function tests: Baseline and periodic assessments of liver enzymes (ALT, AST) and bilirubin levels are essential. Treatment may need to be stopped if liver enzyme elevations become clinically significant.
- Peripheral blood smear: Regular examination of blood smears helps detect early signs of bone marrow fibrosis or other hematological abnormalities.
- Eye examinations: Baseline and periodic ophthalmological assessments to monitor for cataract development.
Elderly Patients
Limited data are available on the use of Eltrombopag Krka in patients aged 65 years and older. Caution is advised in this population, as elderly patients may be more susceptible to thromboembolic events and may have reduced hepatic or renal function affecting drug metabolism. Dose adjustments may be necessary, and more frequent monitoring is generally recommended.
Children and Adolescents
Eltrombopag Krka is approved for the treatment of ITP in children aged 1 year and older. It is not recommended for children under 1 year with ITP, and it is not indicated for patients under 18 years with thrombocytopenia due to hepatitis C.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Eltrombopag Krka should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Animal studies have shown that eltrombopag crosses the placenta, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Women of childbearing potential should use reliable contraception during treatment. If pregnancy occurs during therapy, the patient should inform their physician immediately.
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Eltrombopag Krka. It is unknown whether eltrombopag or its metabolites are excreted in human breast milk. Given the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Eltrombopag Krka may cause dizziness and other side effects that can impair alertness and reaction time. Patients should assess their own ability to drive and operate machinery, particularly at the start of treatment or when doses are changed. If you experience dizziness, visual disturbances, or excessive drowsiness, avoid driving and operating heavy machinery until these effects have resolved.
Eltrombopag Krka tablets contain less than 1 mmol (23 mg) sodium per tablet and are therefore considered essentially sodium-free. This is relevant for patients on sodium-restricted diets.
How Does Eltrombopag Krka Interact with Other Drugs?
Quick Answer: Eltrombopag has significant interactions with antacids, mineral supplements, dairy products, statins, antiretrovirals, and certain cancer medications. Careful timing and dose adjustments are essential to maintain drug effectiveness and safety.
Drug interactions are a critical consideration when taking Eltrombopag Krka, as several common medications and supplements can significantly affect how the drug is absorbed and metabolized. Eltrombopag is chelated (bound) by polyvalent cations such as calcium, iron, magnesium, aluminum, selenium, and zinc, which dramatically reduces its oral bioavailability. Additionally, eltrombopag inhibits certain drug transporters (OATP1B1 and BCRP), which can increase plasma concentrations of their substrate drugs.
Major Interactions
The following interactions are considered clinically significant and require either avoidance, timing separation, or dose adjustments:
| Interacting Substance | Effect | Management |
|---|---|---|
| Antacids (aluminum, calcium, magnesium) | Chelation reduces eltrombopag absorption by up to 70% | Separate by at least 4 hours before and 2 hours after |
| Iron supplements | Chelation significantly reduces absorption | Separate by 4 hours before and 2 hours after |
| Calcium supplements | Chelation reduces drug absorption | Separate by 4 hours before and 2 hours after |
| Dairy products & milk | Calcium content impairs drug absorption | Avoid dairy 4 hours before and 2 hours after dosing |
| Rosuvastatin (and other statins) | Eltrombopag inhibits OATP1B1/BCRP, increasing statin levels | Monitor for myopathy; dose reduction may be needed |
| Lopinavir/ritonavir | May alter eltrombopag plasma levels | Close monitoring; dose adjustment may be required |
| Ciclosporin | Decreased eltrombopag exposure via BCRP induction | Monitor platelet response; may need dose increase |
Cancer Drug Interactions
Eltrombopag inhibits the breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) transporter, which can increase plasma concentrations of drugs that are BCRP substrates. This is particularly relevant for certain chemotherapy agents:
- Methotrexate: Eltrombopag may increase methotrexate levels by inhibiting BCRP-mediated efflux, potentially increasing the risk of methotrexate toxicity. Close monitoring of methotrexate levels and clinical signs of toxicity is recommended.
- Topotecan: As a BCRP substrate, topotecan concentrations may be elevated when administered concomitantly with eltrombopag. Dose adjustments and enhanced monitoring may be necessary.
Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Agents
If you are taking medications that prevent blood clotting (anticoagulants such as warfarin or heparin, or antiplatelet agents such as aspirin or clopidogrel), there may be an increased risk of bleeding. This may seem counterintuitive given that eltrombopag raises platelet counts, but the underlying condition being treated (e.g., ITP) may still cause functional platelet impairment. Your physician will carefully weigh the risks and benefits and may adjust dosages of concurrent anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy.
Concomitant ITP Medications
Patients who are also receiving corticosteroids, danazol, or azathioprine for ITP management may need dose reductions or discontinuation of these medications once Eltrombopag Krka achieves an adequate platelet response. Your physician will guide the tapering schedule based on your individual platelet count trajectory.
What Is the Correct Dosage of Eltrombopag Krka?
Quick Answer: The typical adult starting dose for ITP is 50 mg once daily (25 mg for patients of East/Southeast Asian descent). For hepatitis C-related thrombocytopenia, the starting dose is 25 mg daily. Doses are adjusted based on platelet count response, up to a maximum of 75 mg daily.
Eltrombopag Krka should always be taken exactly as prescribed by your physician. Treatment is initiated and supervised by a specialist experienced in managing the specific condition being treated. The dose is individualized based on platelet count response, and adjustments are typically made at 2-week intervals until a stable platelet count within the target range is achieved.
| Patient Group | Indication | Starting Dose | Maximum Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults | ITP | 50 mg once daily | 75 mg once daily |
| Adults (East/Southeast Asian descent) | ITP | 25 mg once daily | 75 mg once daily |
| Children 6–17 years | ITP | 50 mg once daily | 75 mg once daily |
| Children 1–5 years | ITP | 25 mg once daily | 75 mg once daily |
| Adults | Hepatitis C (HCV) | 25 mg once daily | 100 mg once daily |
How to Take Eltrombopag Krka
Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet. It is essential to take Eltrombopag Krka on an empty stomach to ensure optimal absorption. The following timing rules must be strictly observed:
For 4 hours before and 2 hours after taking Eltrombopag Krka, you must not eat or drink any of the following:
- Dairy products (cheese, butter, yogurt, ice cream)
- Milk or milk-containing beverages (milkshakes, cream-based drinks)
- Antacid medications
- Mineral and vitamin supplements containing iron, calcium, magnesium, aluminum, selenium, or zinc
Consuming these substances within the specified window will significantly reduce drug absorption and compromise treatment effectiveness.
Dose Adjustments
It typically takes 1 to 2 weeks for Eltrombopag Krka to begin producing a measurable effect on platelet counts. Your physician will adjust your dose at intervals of at least 2 weeks based on your platelet count response. The goal is to achieve and maintain platelet counts sufficient to reduce bleeding risk, without elevating them excessively, which could increase thrombotic risk. If platelet counts exceed the target range, the dose will be reduced. If there is no adequate response after 4 weeks at the maximum dose, your physician may consider discontinuing treatment.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take a dose of Eltrombopag Krka, take your next dose at the usual scheduled time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking more than one dose per day is not recommended and may increase the risk of adverse effects, particularly elevated platelet counts and associated thromboembolic complications.
Overdose
In the event of accidental overdose, contact your physician, hospital, or poison control center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include excessive increases in platelet counts, which can lead to thromboembolic complications. There is no specific antidote for eltrombopag. Treatment is supportive, and platelet counts should be monitored closely. As eltrombopag is highly protein-bound, hemodialysis is not expected to be effective in removing the drug from the circulation.
Stopping Treatment
Do not discontinue Eltrombopag Krka without consulting your physician. Abrupt cessation can lead to a rapid decline in platelet counts, potentially to levels lower than before treatment was initiated. This rebound thrombocytopenia increases the risk of clinically significant bleeding. After discontinuation, your physician will monitor your platelet counts weekly for at least 4 weeks and implement appropriate precautions to manage any bleeding risk.
What Are the Side Effects of Eltrombopag Krka?
Quick Answer: Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, upper respiratory infections, headache, and elevated liver enzymes. Serious but less common effects include blood clots, liver damage, and bone marrow changes. Most side effects are dose-dependent and manageable with monitoring.
Like all medications, Eltrombopag Krka can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The frequency and severity of side effects vary depending on the underlying condition being treated, concomitant medications, and individual patient factors. The side effect profiles described below are based on clinical trial data and post-marketing surveillance.
Side Effects in Adults with ITP
Very Common
May affect more than 1 in 10 people
- Common cold (nasopharyngitis)
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Cough
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Back pain
- Elevated liver enzymes (ALT) in blood tests
Common
May affect up to 1 in 10 people
- Muscle pain (myalgia), muscle spasm, bone pain
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Sore throat, difficulty swallowing
- Eye problems: dry eyes, eye pain, blurred vision
- Vomiting, mouth sores, toothache
- Influenza, pneumonia, sinusitis, tonsillitis
- Loss of appetite, tingling or numbness in hands/feet
- Drowsiness, ear pain, dizziness
- Deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in leg)
- Hot flushes, skin rash, itching, hair loss
- Chest pain, fever, weakness, sleep problems
- Decreased red blood cells (anemia), decreased platelets
- Increased uric acid, creatinine, bilirubin, AST levels
Uncommon
May affect up to 1 in 100 people
- Allergic reaction
- Heart attack (interrupted blood supply to heart)
- Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in lungs)
- Blood clot in liver (portal vein thrombosis)
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), liver damage
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat, QT prolongation
- Gout, cataracts, retinal hemorrhage
- Paralysis on one side of the body
- Nerve damage, tremor, speech problems
- Kidney problems, kidney failure
- Rectal/colorectal cancer
Side Effects in Children (1–17 years) with ITP
Very Common
May affect more than 1 in 10 children
- Upper respiratory tract infection, common cold
- Diarrhea, abdominal pain
- Cough, fever, nausea
Common
May affect up to 1 in 10 children
- Sleep difficulties (insomnia)
- Toothache, sore throat, runny/blocked nose
- Mouth problems: dry mouth, sore mouth, sensitive tongue, bleeding gums
Side Effects with Hepatitis C Treatment
When Eltrombopag Krka is used in combination with peginterferon and ribavirin for hepatitis C, the side effect profile includes additional effects related to the antiviral regimen:
Very Common
May affect more than 1 in 10 people
- Headache, loss of appetite, cough
- Nausea, diarrhea, muscle pain
- Itching, fatigue, fever
- Unusual hair loss, weakness
- Flu-like illness, chills
- Swelling in hands or feet
- Anemia (decreased red blood cells)
Common
May affect up to 1 in 10 people
- Urinary tract infection, dry mouth, mouth sores
- Weight loss, sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety
- Dizziness, memory problems, mood changes
- Cataracts, dry eyes, retinal deposits, retinal hemorrhage
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath
- Liver problems including jaundice, liver tumors
- Skin rash, dry skin, eczema, excessive sweating
- Joint pain, back pain, bone pain, muscle spasms
Uncommon
May affect up to 1 in 100 people
- QT prolongation (heart rhythm disturbance)
- Blood clots in liver veins (Budd-Chiari syndrome)
- Hemolytic anemia, confusion, agitation
- Liver failure
Within two weeks of discontinuing Eltrombopag Krka, platelet counts typically return to pre-treatment levels. This rebound may increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. If you are also stopping peginterferon and ribavirin, monitor for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding such as black tarry stool, blood in stool, or vomiting blood. Contact your physician immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
How Should You Store Eltrombopag Krka?
Quick Answer: Store Eltrombopag Krka at room temperature with no special storage requirements. Keep out of reach of children and do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
Eltrombopag Krka does not require any special storage conditions. However, as with all medications, proper storage is important to maintain the drug's effectiveness and safety throughout its shelf life. Store the tablets in their original blister packaging until ready to use to protect them from moisture and light.
Keep this medication out of the sight and reach of children. Accidental ingestion by children could cause dangerous elevations in platelet counts and requires immediate medical attention. Do not use Eltrombopag Krka after the expiration date (marked as "EXP" on the carton and blister pack). The expiration date refers to the last day of the stated month.
Do not dispose of medications via wastewater or household waste. Return unused or expired medications to your pharmacist for proper disposal. These measures help protect the environment and prevent accidental exposure.
What Does Eltrombopag Krka Contain?
Quick Answer: Each tablet contains eltrombopag olamine equivalent to 25 mg, 50 mg, or 75 mg of eltrombopag. The tablets contain common pharmaceutical excipients and are film-coated for ease of swallowing.
Active Ingredient
The active substance is eltrombopag, present in the form of eltrombopag olamine. The available strengths correspond to 25 mg, 50 mg, and 75 mg of eltrombopag per film-coated tablet.
Inactive Ingredients (Excipients)
The tablet core contains: povidone, microcrystalline cellulose, mannitol, hydroxypropylcellulose, sodium starch glycolate (type A), and magnesium stearate.
The film coating contains: hypromellose, macrogol, talc, titanium dioxide (E171). The 50 mg and 75 mg tablets additionally contain red iron oxide (E172), yellow iron oxide (E172, 50 mg only), and indigocarmine (E132).
Appearance and Pack Sizes
| Strength | Appearance | Imprint |
|---|---|---|
| 25 mg | Round, biconvex, white film-coated tablet | "25" on one side |
| 50 mg | Round, biconvex, brown film-coated tablet | "50" on one side |
| 75 mg | Round, biconvex, pink film-coated tablet | "75" on one side |
Eltrombopag Krka is available in blister packs containing 14, 28, 56, or 84 film-coated tablets. Calendar packs and multipacks containing 84 tablets (3 packs of 28) are also available. Not all pack sizes may be marketed in all countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eltrombopag Krka is a thrombopoietin receptor agonist that increases platelet production. It is used to treat immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in patients aged 1 year and older who have not responded to other treatments such as corticosteroids or immunoglobulins. It is also used to treat low platelet counts in adults with chronic hepatitis C who have problems with interferon therapy side effects.
Take Eltrombopag Krka once daily on an empty stomach. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Avoid dairy products, calcium-rich foods, antacids, and mineral supplements (iron, calcium, magnesium, aluminum, selenium, zinc) for 4 hours before and 2 hours after taking the tablet, as these interfere with absorption. The usual adult starting dose for ITP is 50 mg daily (25 mg for patients of East/Southeast Asian descent).
Very common side effects (more than 1 in 10 people) include common cold, nausea, diarrhea, cough, upper respiratory infections, back pain, and elevated liver enzymes (ALT) in blood tests. Common side effects include muscle pain, eye problems, vomiting, and changes in blood cell counts. Serious but less common effects include blood clots and liver damage, which require immediate medical attention.
Eltrombopag has important interactions with several medications. Antacids, iron, calcium, and mineral supplements must be separated by at least 4 hours before and 2 hours after your dose. Statins (especially rosuvastatin), ciclosporin, HIV medications (lopinavir/ritonavir), and certain cancer drugs (methotrexate, topotecan) also interact with eltrombopag. Always inform your physician about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements.
Eltrombopag Krka should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary and specifically recommended by your physician. The effects during pregnancy are not fully established. Women of childbearing potential should use reliable contraception during treatment. Breastfeeding is not recommended as it is unknown whether eltrombopag passes into breast milk.
Do not stop taking Eltrombopag Krka without medical guidance. Platelet counts typically return to pre-treatment levels within days of stopping, which increases the risk of bleeding and bruising. Your physician will monitor your platelet counts weekly for at least 4 weeks after discontinuation and advise on appropriate precautions.
References
- European Medicines Agency (EMA). Eltrombopag — Summary of Product Characteristics. EMA. Available at: www.ema.europa.eu. Accessed January 2026.
- Cheng G, Saleh MN, Marcher C, et al. Eltrombopag for management of chronic immune thrombocytopenia (RAISE): a 6-month, randomised, phase 3 study. The Lancet. 2011;377(9763):393-402. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(10)60959-2
- Bussel JB, de Miguel PG, Despotovic JM, et al. Eltrombopag for the treatment of children with persistent and chronic immune thrombocytopenia (PETIT2): a randomised, multicentre, double-blind trial. The Lancet Haematology. 2015;2(8):e315-e325.
- Afdhal NH, Giannini EG, Vaez-Zadeh N, et al. Eltrombopag before procedures in patients with cirrhosis and thrombocytopenia. New England Journal of Medicine. 2012;367(8):716-724.
- Provan D, Arnold DM, Bussel JB, et al. Updated international consensus report on the investigation and management of primary immune thrombocytopenia. Blood Advances. 2019;3(22):3780-3817.
- World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd List. Geneva: WHO; 2023.
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Eltrombopag for treating chronic immune (idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura. Technology Appraisal Guidance [TA293]. 2013 (updated 2023).
- British National Formulary (BNF). Eltrombopag. NICE BNF. Available at: bnf.nice.org.uk. Accessed January 2026.
Editorial Team
This drug information article has been compiled by the iMedic Medical Editorial Team, which includes specialists in hematology and clinical pharmacology. All content is based on the approved Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), peer-reviewed clinical trial data, and international treatment guidelines from the EMA, FDA, WHO, NICE, and BNF.
Our editorial process follows the GRADE evidence framework, and all medical claims are supported by Level 1A evidence where available. This content undergoes regular review and is updated when new evidence or regulatory changes become available.
Last medical review: January 7, 2026
Evidence sources: EMA SmPC, FDA Prescribing Information, The Lancet, NEJM, Blood Advances, WHO Essential Medicines List, NICE, BNF