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Treatment Options > Chemotherapy > OncoLink Rx

Romiplostim (Nplate™)

Carolyn Vachani, RN, MSN, AOCN
Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania
Last Modified: October 29, 2008

Facts about Nplate™

Nplate™ is a man-made protein used to treat a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) in adults that is caused by idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (also called ITP). Nplate™ should not be used to treat thrombocytopenia caused by other conditions and may worsen pre-existing blood cancers or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Nplate™ may only be prescribed by healthcare providers who are certified by the Nplate NEXUS program, which oversees the distribution and safe use of Nplate™. Patients who receive Nplate™ will also be enrolled in and monitored by the NEXUS program.

How to take Nplate™

Nplate™ is given as a subcutaneous injection (given under the skin) once a week in your provider’s office.
The actual dose is based on your body size, starting at 1 mcg per kilogram.
Your platelet count will be checked each week and the dose of medication adjusted accordingly.
In studies, patients received Nplate™ for up to 96 weeks. The NEXUS program will monitor all patients receiving the medication and alert participants of any safety concerns.
Possible side effects of Nplate™

There are a number of things you can do to manage the side effects of Nplate™ . Talk to your doctor or nurse about these recommendations. They can help you decide what will work best for you.

Bone Marrow Changes

Long term use of Nplate™ may cause changes in your bone marrow. These can include an increase in reticulin. Increased reticulin is unlikely to cause problems, but it is not known if this can lead to a more serious condition called bone marrow fibrosis, which is a scarring of the bone marrow, causing it to produce fewer blood cells. Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood tests for abnormalities that could signify changes in the bone marrow.

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