Anagrelide Hydrochloride Oral capsule Health Article

Generic name(s):

Anagrelide Hydrochloride Oral capsule

Brand name(s):

Agrylin

What is this medicine?

ANAGRELIDE (an AG re lide) is used to lower platelet counts. This helps to prevent blood clots from forming. It also reduces the risk of problems like intestinal bleeding, stroke, and heart attack caused by having too many platelets.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• heart disease
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to anagrelide, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be prescribed for children as young as 7 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• aspirin and aspirin-like drugs
• cilostazol
• fluvoxamine
• medicines called inotropes like milrinone, enoximone, amrinone, and olprinone
• medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
• sucralfate
• theophylline

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• blood in urine
• breathing problems
• chest pain or tightness
• irregular heartbeat
• seizures
• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual swelling
• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• abdominal pain
• back pain
• diarrhea
• gas
• headache
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.