Anagrelide
Polycythemia Vera, Thrombocytosis
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Platelet-reducing Agent
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Anagrelide
Summary
Anagrelide is used for treating conditions like essential thrombocythemia and polycythemia vera. These are myeloproliferative neoplasms that cause elevated platelet counts in the blood.
Anagrelide works by inhibiting the maturation of megakaryocytes, which are cells responsible for producing platelets. This action reduces the number of platelets in the blood, helping to prevent complications such as blood clots.
Anagrelide is taken by mouth, with or without food, two to four times a day. The starting dosage for adults is 0.5 mg four times daily or 1 mg twice daily. For pediatric patients, the starting dosage is 0.5 mg daily. The dosage may be adjusted based on the patient's response.
Common side effects of Anagrelide include headache, diarrhea, palpitations, and nausea. It can also cause dizziness, lack of energy, weakness, and sleep disturbances. Serious adverse effects can include cardiovascular issues like congestive heart failure and pulmonary hypertension.
Anagrelide is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It can interact with certain medications, so patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking. It's contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Patients with known risk factors for QT interval prolongation should avoid using Anagrelide.
Indications and Purpose
How does Anagrelide work?
Anagrelide works by inhibiting the maturation of megakaryocytes, the cells responsible for producing platelets. This action reduces the number of platelets in the blood, helping to prevent complications associated with high platelet counts, such as blood clots.
Is Anagrelide effective?
Anagrelide is effective in reducing elevated platelet counts in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms, such as essential thrombocythemia. Clinical trials have shown that it can lower platelet counts to or near physiological levels, reducing the risk of thrombo-hemorrhagic events.
What is Anagrelide?
Anagrelide is used to reduce elevated platelet counts in conditions like essential thrombocythemia and polycythemia vera. It works by slowing the production of platelets in the body, helping to prevent complications such as blood clots. Anagrelide is a platelet-reducing agent that requires regular monitoring to ensure effectiveness and safety.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Anagrelide?
Anagrelide is used to manage conditions like essential thrombocythemia and polycythemia vera, and it is typically taken long-term to control platelet levels. The duration of use depends on the individual's response and medical condition, and it should be continued as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
How do I take Anagrelide?
Anagrelide should be taken by mouth, with or without food, two to four times a day at the same times each day. Patients should follow their doctor's instructions carefully and not take more or less than prescribed. It is advised to talk to a doctor about consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on this medication.
How long does it take for Anagrelide to start working?
Anagrelide typically begins to lower platelet counts within 7 to 14 days at the proper dosage. The time to complete response, defined as a platelet count of ≤600,000/μL, can range from 4 to 12 weeks.
How should I store Anagrelide?
Store Anagrelide in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from light, excess heat, and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program.
What is the usual dose of Anagrelide?
For adults, the recommended starting dosage of Anagrelide is 0.5 mg four times daily or 1 mg twice daily. For pediatric patients, the starting dosage is 0.5 mg daily. The dose may be adjusted based on the patient's response, but should not exceed 10 mg/day or 2.5 mg in a single dose.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Anagrelide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Anagrelide and for one week after the last dose due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed child, including thrombocytopenia.
Can Anagrelide be taken safely while pregnant?
Anagrelide is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on fetal development. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment. If pregnancy occurs, consult a doctor immediately.
Can I take Anagrelide with other prescription drugs?
Significant drug interactions with Anagrelide include those with medications that prolong the QT interval, such as certain antibiotics and antipsychotics. It also interacts with PDE3 inhibitors and drugs that increase bleeding risk, like aspirin and NSAIDs. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking.
Is Anagrelide safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may experience higher exposure to Anagrelide, leading to increased sensitivity to its effects. No specific dosage adjustments are required, but careful monitoring is recommended due to the higher incidence of serious adverse events, particularly cardiac issues, in this age group.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Anagrelide?
Anagrelide may cause dizziness and weakness, which could potentially limit your ability to exercise safely. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to discuss them with your doctor. They can provide guidance on safe levels of physical activity while taking this medication.
Who should avoid taking Anagrelide?
Important warnings for Anagrelide include cardiovascular toxicity, pulmonary hypertension, and bleeding risk. It is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Patients should be monitored for cardiovascular effects, and those with known risk factors for QT interval prolongation should avoid using Anagrelide.
