Rebopag 50mg, containing the active ingredient Eltrombopag, is a prescription medication primarily used to treat low platelet counts in patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), aplastic anemia, or hepatitis C-related thrombocytopenia. It belongs to a class of drugs known as thrombopoietin receptor agonists, helping stimulate the production of platelets in the bone marrow.
What is Rebopag 50mg?
Rebopag 50mg is an oral thrombopoietin receptor agonist (TPO-RA) formulated to treat conditions where the body’s platelet production is abnormally low. It is especially useful in managing chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in adults and children aged 1 year and older who have not responded well to other treatments, such as corticosteroids or immunoglobulins.
How Does Rebopag Work? (Mechanism of Action)
Eltrombopag, the active compound in Rebopag, mimics thrombopoietin (TPO), a natural protein that binds to the c-Mpl receptor on bone marrow cells. By activating this receptor, Eltrombopag promotes the differentiation and proliferation of megakaryocytes, the cells that give rise to platelets. This mechanism significantly increases platelet count, reducing the risk of bleeding in patients with low platelets.
How to Use / Indications
Indications for Rebopag 50mg include:
- Chronic Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) in adults and children 1 year and older.
- Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) unresponsive to immunosuppressive therapy.
- Thrombocytopenia in patients with chronic hepatitis C, to allow initiation and maintenance of interferon-based therapy.
How to Take Rebopag / Dosage
Typical Dosage Guidelines:
- ITP (Adults): 50 mg once daily (starting dose); Rebopag 50mg may be used based on patient response.
- ITP (Children 1–5 years): Starting dose is 50 mg once daily.
- Hepatitis C-associated thrombocytopenia: 50 mg once daily; may be increased based on platelet response.
- Aplastic anemia: Starting dose is typically 50 mg/day.
Administration Tips:
- Take on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
- Avoid dairy, antacids, or mineral supplements within 4 hours of taking Rebopag.
- Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions.
Other Dosage Forms and Strengths
- Rebopag 25mg
- Rebopag 50mg
Dosage adjustments are based on age, liver function, and platelet response. Lower doses may be necessary for East Asian patients due to pharmacokinetic variations.
Side Effects of Rebopag 50mg
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Muscle aches
Serious Side Effects:
- Liver enzyme elevation
- Thromboembolism (blood clots)
- Cataract formation (with long-term use)
- Bone marrow fibrosis (rare)
- Monitoring of liver function and platelet levels is crucial during treatment.
Storage Instructions
- Store Rebopag 50mg at room temperature (20–25°C).
- Keep away from moisture, heat, and light.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not use expired medication.
Benefits of Rebopag 50mg
- Increases platelet counts in patients with chronic ITP or aplastic anemia.
- Allows continuation of antiviral therapy in hepatitis C patients with low platelets.
- Reduces dependency on corticosteroids, splenectomy, or transfusions.
- Oral dosing provides ease of use over injectable treatments.
Prescription Requirement
Yes, Rebopag 50mg is a prescription-only medicine. It should be used under the supervision of a hematologist or oncologist, and patients must undergo regular monitoring for safety and efficacy.
Drug Interactions
Rebopag can interact with:
- Antacids containing aluminum, magnesium, or calcium
- Dairy products
- Iron, zinc, and selenium supplements
- Statins and certain antivirals
- Always inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid harmful interactions.
FAQs about Rebopag 50mg
How long does it take to work?
Platelet counts may rise within 1–2 weeks but response varies by condition.
Can Rebopag cure ITP?
No, it manages platelet counts but doesn’t cure ITP.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next dose. Don’t double dose.
Conclusion
Rebopag 50mg (Eltrombopag) is a valuable therapeutic option for patients with chronic low platelet counts due to ITP, aplastic anemia, or hepatitis C. Its oral route, efficacy, and manageable side effects make it a widely used drug under specialist care. However, due to potential serious side effects like liver toxicity and blood clots, regular monitoring is essential. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
