What are the possible side effects of long-term use of eltrombopag?

Eltrombopag (Eltrombopag), as a thrombopoietin receptor agonist, is mainly used to treat thrombocytopenia caused by chronic immune (idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). However, long-term use of eltrombopag may come with a range of side effects.

1. Common side effects

Digestive system discomfort: including nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, loss of appetite, indigestion, etc. These symptoms may affect the patient's quality of life, but most are mild to moderate.

Musculoskeletal symptoms: such as muscle pain, bone pain, muscle spasm, musculoskeletal pain, etc. These symptoms may interfere with the patient's daily activities.

Nervous system symptoms: including headache, dizziness, drowsiness or weakness. These symptoms may affect the patient's cognitive function and mental state.

Skin reactions: such as rash, itching, urticaria, etc. These skin reactions may be a sign of an allergic reaction to eltrombopag.

2. Serious side effects

Abnormal liver function: Long-term use of eltrombopag may cause damage to the liver, leading to abnormal liver function, manifested as elevated transaminase, elevated bilirubin, etc. In severe cases, hepatotoxicity and potentially fatal liver damage may occur.

Increased risk of thrombosis: Eltrombopag increases platelet counts by promoting platelet production and reducing platelet destruction, but may also increase the risk of blood clotting, which can lead to the formation of blood clots. Thrombosis may occur at any location, and in severe cases may lead to serious complications such as organ infarction.

Bleeding tendencies: Although eltrombopag's main effect is to increase platelet counts, long-term use may also cause bleeding tendencies. Patients may experience spontaneous bleeding or prolonged bleeding after minor trauma.

A small number of patients may have severe allergic reactions to eltrombopag, such as difficulty breathing, laryngeal edema, etc., and require immediate medical treatment. Eltrombopag may interact with other medicines, affecting their effectiveness or increasing your risk of side effects. Therefore, while using eltrombopag, your doctor should be informed of any other medications you are taking.