Agrylin® is the brand name for anagrelide hydrochloride, a type of drug called a phospholipase A2 inhibitor that helps lower the platelet count in the bloodstream. People who have blood disorders, such as thrombocythemia, that cause them to produce too many platelets need this medication to keep their platelet counts under control. Left untreated, such blood disorders can eventually lead to blood clots, which could trigger a heart attack or stroke.
This drug is specifically called a phospholipase A2 inhibitor because it prevents the phospholipase A2 enzyme from participating in the platelet formation process, inhibiting the production of new platelets. This helps lower the amount of platelets present in the blood, normalizing platelet counts and helping people feel better. People commonly feel dizzy and out of breath when they have such disorders.
Agrylin® is currently only available in tablet form. Doctors usually recommend taking the medication up to four times per day. Although it is not necessary to take it with food, it will not cause any harm if it is, unlike similar medications that can cause stomach upset when ingested with food. Doctors recommend taking the medication with a full glass of water.
Like with most medications, feeling better is not always an indication the condition is cured or the blood platelets have reached normal levels. In fact, Agrylin® cannot cure or eliminate the disorder; it only helps control it. Unless a doctor recommends it, patients should not stop taking the medication, even if all of their symptoms disappear.
Due to its effects on the blood — or more specifically, platelet formation — Agrylin® can make people more likely to bleed uncontrollably. Undergoing surgery of any kind could be dangerous because Agrylin® makes it harder to control the bleeding. As such, this medication is not suitable for people who have bleeding disorders because the blood will have a harder time coagulating.
While taking Agrylin®, people may notice their symptoms worsening, especially when just beginning to take the medication. This is a normal effect and should lessen or disappear after the body adjusts to the new medication. If these effects become worse or do not go away after several weeks, however, it may be a sign of a serious reaction that requires medical assistance.
This drug can worsen severe liver disease and should not be used by anyone with this condition. It could also harm an unborn baby or transfer into breast milk, so it isn't considered safe for use by pregnant women. Doctors also avoid recommending this drug to people who are allergic or sensitive to, gelatin or lactose ingredients, which are used to make this drug.