Role of anagrelide in the treatment of thrombocytosis.
OBJECTIVE
To review the role of anagrelide in the management of essential thrombocythemia.


METHODS
A MEDLINE search (January 1966-August 1998) was performed using the key terms anagrelide, thrombocytosis, and essential thrombocythemia. In addition, the package insert, product monograph, and patient information pamphlets were reviewed.


RESULTS
Recently, there has been a trend toward the use of anagrelide in the management of thrombocythemia. Anagrelide lacks leukemogenic and mutagenic potential and possesses a more favorable adverse effect profile compared with other therapeutic agents. At recommended doses, anagrelide induces thrombocytopenia in thrombocythemic patients with a concomitant reduction in the incidence of disease-related symptoms.


CONCLUSIONS
Although the treatment of choice for thrombocythemia is still an area of debate, anagrelide has distinct advantages over alternative therapies. Anagrelide represents an important therapeutic option in the treatment of patients with thrombocythemia.
Brooks
W G
WG
School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298, USA.
Stanley
D D
DD
Goode
J V
JV
D006801:Humans; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011799:Quinazolines / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013922:Thrombocytosis / Q000188:drug therapy*
D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors; D011799:Quinazolines; C021139:anagrelide