ABOUT TPO-RA's
ITP is also known as Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura
There are three TPO-RA treatments currently available. These are Romiplostim (NPlate), which is a TPO-RA Peptibody, Eltrombopag (Revolage or Promacta), which is a non-Peptide and Avatrombopag (Doptelet).
So, what is a Thrombopoietin Receptor Agonist or TPO-RA?
Thrombopoietin (TPO) is a hormone produced by the liver that naturally controls the development of megakaryocytes, which are the large cell-producing platelets in the bone marrow.
TPO receptor agonists (TPO-RAs) bind to the same receptor and prompt megakaryocytes in the bone marrow to produce more platelets.
In June 2022, the PBAC made a recommendation to the Australia Federal Government to remove access restrictions to TPO-RAs class treatments for people living with ITP.
These changes came into effect in January 2023, resulting in ITP patients being able to access these treatments earlier on in their ITP journey and withing having to undergo a Splenectomy.
About Romiplostim
Commercially known as Nplate, Romiplostim is known as a peptibody and comes in liquid form and is delivered through regular (usually weekly) subcutaneous injections.
About Eltrombopag
Eltrombopag, also known as Revolade or Promacta, is a non-peptide molecule that binds to the TPO receptor to increase platelet counts.
About Avatrombopag
Commercially known as Doptelet, Avatrombopag is similar to Eltrombopag but does not have the same dietary restrictions.
The Australian Federal Government has added this treatment to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from 1 July 2023.