Medication Options for Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)
There is no cure for ITP, but there are effective ways to manage it. One of these strategies is to use medication. Medications include the following:
Oral corticosteroids such as prednisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone are usually the first line of treatment for ITP, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD).These drugs can get your platelets back to safe levels, but are only recommended for short-term use because they can increase your risk of a number of health conditions, including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, infections, and osteoporosis, according to the Mayo Clinic.Immune globulin If your body doesn’t respond to corticosteroids, immune globulin is an option. According to NORD, this medication is administered intravenously (through an IV) on an as-needed basis, usually for one to two days. Immune globulin can be used in an emergency if you have critical bleeding or need to up your platelet levels right away, according to the Mayo Clinic.Drugs to raise platelet count Certain medications can boost platelet production. These include romiplostim (Nplate), eltrombopag (Promacta), and Rituximab (Rituxan, Truxima).
Surgery for Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)
The spleen is an organ responsible for producing antibodies that fight infections. In people with ITP, these antibodies are what’s attacking platelets by mistake. Removal of the spleen will therefore eliminate this problem and get platelets back to a normal level.
Lifestyle Changes With Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)
Avoid contact sports that can lead to head injuries, such as boxing, football, and karate. Generally, swimming, cycling with a helmet, and walking are considered safe forms of physical activity. Always talk to your doctor before you take any new medication, vitamin, supplement, or herbal remedy, as some of these may increase your risk of bleeding. Your doctor may tell you to avoid aspirin and ibuprofen for this reason. Stay in touch with your healthcare team, which may include a hematologist, or specialist in blood disorders. If you had your spleen removed and experience any sign of infection, such as fever, tell your doctor right away.
