Anagrelide

What is Anagrelide for?

Anagrelide is an antiplatelet agent used for treatment of myeloproliferative disorders.

How should I take or use Anagrelide?

Anagrelide should be taken orally as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food.Do not crush or chew the capsule.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Anagrelide?

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If it is close to the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at your usual time. Do not take two doses at once or take extra doses

What precautions should I take when taking or using Anagrelide?

Talk to your doctor before taking Anagrelide:

1. If you have or think you might have a problem with your heart
2. If you have ever had a long QT on ECG or other heartbeat that is not normal
3. If you have any problems with your liver or kidneys
4. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
5. If you are breast-feeding. Do not breast-feed while you take this drug and for 1 week after your last dose

There is an increased risk of bleeding when Anagrelide is taken together with aspirin. This risk is higher in patients with a platelet count of more than 1000 x 10⁹/L.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist the medicines you are taking including vitamins and supplements. Some blood thinners, painkillers or antidepressants may increase the risk of bleeding while on Anagrelide.

What are some common side effects of Anagrelide?

1. Headache
2. Lethargy or generalised weakness
3. Nausea, stomach pain, diarrhoea
4. Dizziness
5. Heart palpitations
6. Fluid retention or leg swelling

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

1. Sign of an allergic reaction e.g. rash, itching, swollen, trouble breathing.
2. Sign of bleeding e.g. throwing up blood, blood in the urine, black and tarry stools, bleeding from the gum, bruises without a reason or that get bigger.
3. Severe headache or severe dizziness
4. Chest pain or shortness of breath
5. Irregular or fast heartbeat

How should I store Anagrelide?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
• Store at room temperature

How do I throw away Anagrelide safely?

Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.