Patients who undergo intensive chemotherapy and radiation may experience thrombocytopenia, a sharp reduction in platelets, which can lead to bleeding complications. Researchers have been studying whether rhTPO can stimulate more rapid production of platelets following anticancer treatment. I clinical studies indicate that rhTPO appears safe and well tolerated and that higher doses of the drug result in increased platelet production. This may be helpful in treating cancer patients so they can avoid the side effects of chmotherapy and radiation, and possibly tolerate higher doses of anticancer treatment. According to Dr. Vadhan-Raj, single doses of rhTPO were administered to 14 cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
Patients then receive the same dose of rhTPO after chemotherapy in subsequent cycles.
Fourteen patients had been treated upon submission of Dr. Vadhan-Raj's abstract. In Cycle 0, the lowest dose of rhTPO was minimally active, but increased platelet production occurred at higher doses. Thrombocytopenia is a serious problem for patients undergoing chemotherapy which predisposes patients to serious bleeding complications. These preliminary results with rhTPO are encouraging, but further investigation will be needed to confirm both its efficacy and safety. The information provided through OncoLink should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease.