Agrylin ®

Anagrelide is the generic name given for the chemo care drug and it goes by the trade name of Agrylin. Agrylin is also considered as a Phospholipase A2 inhibitor. It is used to treat thrombocythemia. In this case there is an unchecked increase in the platelet count.

Agrylin is administered orally as it comes in a capsule form and the amount and the time period for the administration of this drug depends upon various factors like the height, weight, present body condition, other body ailments, the stage of cancer etc. Agrylin, Anagrelide

What are the side effects that are associated with Agrylin?

As such there are not many side effects associated with this drug, but then there are certain side effects that are clearly visible from the onset of the treatment cycle until the completion of the treatment. These side effects are reversible and there are ways to minimize the side effects as well as prevent certain side effects. In some cases there have been complaints of persistent headaches, heart palpitations leading to other heart ailments, nausea, dizzy spells, diarrhea etc. These side effects vary from each individual and the severity of these side effects depends upon the dosage of the medication too.

Increase in the heart palpitation could lead to heart attacks and the signs and symptoms of heart attacks are anxiety, increased heart beats, pain in the chest, neck, jaws, arms, back, cold sweats, breathlessness etc.

In case you find the below mentioned side effects for persisting in spite of medications you need to consult your doctor immediately. The side effects are dizziness, diarrhea, bleeding or bruises, blood in the stool or urine, weight gain, swelling in the feet or in the ankles, fatigue etc.

Certain precautionary methods

Before you start off on anagrelide you need to bring it to your doctor’s notice all the medications that you are presently on even those vitamin supplements as well as herbal medications.

You also need to seek permission to get yourself immunized or vaccinated when on this mode of treatment. Inform your doctor about any impending pregnancy as Anagrelide is harmful for the development of the fetus, breast feeding should be avoided.

Self help tips

Avoid driving or operating machineries as anagrelide tends to induce drowsiness, to reduce the effects of nausea you anti-nausea medications, increase the intake of water, avoid alcohol and alcoholic drinks, follow a nutritious diet, avoid crowded places as you are prone to infections, avoid contact sports etc. You also need to get your blood checked regularly to monitor the proper functioning of your internal organs.

As you know that thrombocythemia is a disorder of the blood where in there in an uncontrolled increase in the platelet count and Anagrelide is known to block the further mutation of megakaryocytes. It blocks the enzyme in this cell from completing the mutation thus destroying them. The enzyme here is phospholipase A2 which is responsible for the completion of the maturation of the megakaryocytes in the platelets. This is not a genetic disorder.