Revolade (Eltrombopag)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Revolade Used For?
Revolade is a medication that helps increase and maintain platelet levels in the blood, which is crucial for reducing bleeding.
Primary Uses
Revolade is used to treat conditions such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), low platelet counts due to hepatitis C virus (HCV), and severe aplastic anemia (SAA).
How It Works
Revolade works by stimulating the body's production of platelets, which are essential for blood clotting.
Good to know: Revolade is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Revolade
Revolade should be taken consistently at the same time each day with a glass of water.
Dosage Instructions
The typical starting dose for adults and children aged 6-17 with ITP is 50 mg daily. For those of East/Southeast Asian descent, the starting dose is 25 mg daily. For children aged 1-5 with ITP, the dose is 25 mg daily. Adult HCV patients usually start with 25 mg daily. For SAA, doses vary based on age and treatment context.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose the following day. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double your dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Cough
- Headache
- Nausea
- Flu-like symptoms
- Urinary tract infection
- Muscle or joint pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Hair thinning or loss
- Rash
- Itching
- Bruising
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Sensitivity to light
- Vision problems
- Increased sunburn risk
- Cloudy or unusual-smelling urine
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Severe abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Swelling of the abdomen, face, or tongue
- Itchy rash
- Dark urine or reduced urination
- Chest pain
- Facial paralysis or drooping
- Confusion or speech difficulties
- Painful redness or swelling under the skin
Important Warnings
There are important considerations to keep in mind when using Revolade.
Who Should Not Take Revolade
Do not use Revolade if you are allergic to eltrombopag or any of its ingredients, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are under 18 years of age with HCV.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of liver problems, eye issues, kidney problems, skin cancer, or blood disorders with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Avoid becoming pregnant while taking Revolade, as it can harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Revolade and affect its effectiveness.
- Statins like rosuvastatin
- Interferon therapy for HCV
- Antacids containing aluminium, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc
- HIV medications such as lopinavir or ritonavir
- Cyclosporin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Revolade.
Alcohol
Inform your doctor if you consume alcohol.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Exercise caution when driving or using machinery until you know how Revolade affects you.
Storage
Store Revolade in a cool, dark, dry place below 30°C, away from moisture and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Revolade to work can vary, but it is important to follow your doctor's instructions and attend regular blood tests to monitor your platelet levels.
It is recommended to take Revolade at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after consuming dairy products or antacids.
No, Revolade is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Revolade abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to a return of bleeding symptoms.
You should inform your doctor if you drink alcohol, as it may affect your treatment.
Weight gain is not listed as a common side effect of Revolade, but any concerns should be discussed with your doctor.
Elderly patients should discuss their health history with their doctor to ensure Revolade is safe for them.
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose the following day. Do not take a double dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.