Marathon/PTC Th: A Complete Guide
Marathon/PTC Th is a medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of thrombocytopenia, which is a condition characterized by a low platelet count in the blood. This medication is a combined product containing two different drugs, eltrombopag and romiplostim, which work together to increase the number of platelets in the blood. In this guide, we will explore everything there is to know about Marathon/PTC Th, including its uses, dosage, side effects, interactions, generic alternatives, and demographics, along with medically-cited research.
Uses
Marathon/PTC Th is primarily used for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in adult patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), who have had little to no response to prior treatments or have had their spleen removed. Marathon/PTC Th has been shown to increase platelet counts in patients with ITP, reducing the risk of bleeding and the need for other treatments such as blood transfusions.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for Marathon/PTC Th is based on a patient's body weight and should be determined by a healthcare professional. Typically, the starting dose is 25 mg once daily, and the dosage will be adjusted based on the patient's platelet count response. The maximum dose of Marathon/PTC Th is 75 mg once daily.
Side Effects
Like any medication, Marathon/PTC Th can cause side effects. The most common side effects of Marathon/PTC Th include headache, nausea, diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, and fatigue. Patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia who received Marathon/PTC Th have reported rare cases of blood clots and increased risk of bone marrow fibrosis. As with any medication, patients should monitor any changes or reactions they experience and report them to their healthcare professional.
Interactions
Marathon/PTC Th may interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your healthcare professional of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter vitamins and supplements. For example, Marathon/PTC Th should not be taken with NSAIDs as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
Generic Alternatives
Marathon/PTC Th is a combined drug product that contains eltrombopag and romiplostim. There are generic alternatives that contain just eltrombopag. These alternatives may be more affordable for patients, but they may not have been specifically studied for use in chronic immune thrombocytopenia. Belsensio is a generic alternative with eltrombopag and was approved in November 2021.
Demographics
Marathon/PTC Th is approved for use in adult patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia who have had little to no response to prior treatments or have had their spleen removed. In clinical trials, Marathon/PTC Th demonstrated efficacy in increasing platelet counts in patients with ITP, reducing the risk of bleeding. Patients should always follow their healthcare professional's advice on treatment.
Conclusion
Marathon/PTC Th is a medication approved for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in adult patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia. It is a combined drug product that contains eltrombopag and romiplostim and works to increase the number of platelets in the blood. As with any medication, it's crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and to be aware of any possible side effects or interactions with other medications. There are generic alternatives to Marathon/PTC Th, but they may not have been specifically studied for use in chronic immune thrombocytopenia. Always follow your healthcare professional's advice on treatment and report any changes or reactions experienced.