Key facts about Romiplostim
What dosages is Romiplostim available in?
Romiplostim is available as a 125 mcg, 250 mcg or 500 mcg single-dose vial.
What is Romiplostim used for?
Romiplostim is a thrombopoietin receptor agonist and is used for the following:
- Low platelet levels in the blood caused by attacks from the immune system (immune thrombocytopenic purpura or ITP)
- Blood problems caused by too much radiation (hematopoietic syndrome of acute radiation syndrome).
How does Romiplostim work?
Romiplostim is a thrombopoietin receptor agonist. This means that it acts like the hormone thrombopoietin that’s responsible for the production of your platelets. Platelets are blood cells that help you form clots to prevent bleeds. When your platelet levels are too low, you’re at higher risk for bleeds. Romiplostim is used to raise the amount of platelets in people with immune thrombocytopenia, a condition where your platelets are attacked by your immune system. Romiplostim is also used to raise platelet levels in people whose platelets have been destroyed by too much radiation exposure. By raising the platelet levels, this medication helps lower the risk for bleeding.
How do I take Romiplostim?
Romiplostim is dosed as follows:
- This medication must be given by a healthcare provider. Your provider will determine your dose of Romiplostim based on your weight
- ITP: The typical starting dose is 1 mcg/kg injected under the skin once weekly. Your provider will adjust your dose based on your platelet level
- Blood problems from too much radiation: The typical dose is 10 mcg/kg injected under the skin as a one-time dose by your provider
Is it safe for me to take Romiplostim?
Romiplostim is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Romiplostim Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Romiplostim:
- Joint stiffness
- Dizziness
- Trouble sleeping
- Muscle pain
- Arm or leg pain
- Bruising
- Cough, runny nose, and other symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection
- Mouth and throat pain
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Stomach pain
Romiplostim Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Romiplostim. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Blood clot in the liver: upper stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Other types of blood clots: legs or arms (swelling, redness, pain), lungs (difficulty breathing, chest pain), heart attack (chest pain, pain in the arms or shoulders, pain in the neck or jaw, shortness of breath), stroke (numbness, tingling feeling, difficulty speaking, confusion)
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Romiplostim
There are no major drug interactions listed for Romiplostim. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking.
Who makes Romiplostim?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Romiplostim safe in pregnancy?
Romiplostim may harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with Romiplostim.













