Immune Thrombocytopenia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Immune thrombocytopenia is a bleeding disorder. Immune thrombocytopenia may happen when your immune system attacks and destroys your platelets. This causes low platelet levels. Platelets are cells that help the blood clot (stop bleeding). When platelet levels are low, bleeding may occur anywhere in your body. Immune thrombocytopenia may also be called idiopathic thrombocytopenia.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:

• You have any of the following signs of a heart attack:
  • Squeezing, pressure, or pain in your chest
  • You may also have any of the following:
    • Discomfort or pain in your back, neck, jaw, stomach, or arm
    • Shortness of breath
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Lightheadedness or a sudden cold sweat
• You have any of the following signs of a stroke:
  • Numbness or drooping on one side of your face
  • Weakness in an arm or leg
  • Confusion or difficulty speaking
  • Dizziness, a severe headache, or vision loss
• You fall and hit your head.
• You have a seizure.
• You cannot be woken.

Seek care immediately if:

• You have bleeding that does not stop or becomes heavier.
• You have a bruise that suddenly gets larger.
• You vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
• Your arm or leg feels looks bigger than normal and is warm or painful.
• You suddenly feel lightheaded, dizzy, or weak.
• You become confused or have trouble thinking clearly.

Call your doctor or hematologist if:

• You have bleeding from your gums, mouth, or nose.
• You have irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding.
• You have blood in your urine or bowel movement.
• You have abdominal pain.
• You see new bruises or small red or purple spots on your skin.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Promacta
• Nplate
• Doptelet
• Privigen
• prednisone

View more treatment options

Medicines:

• Medicines may be given to prevent your immune system from destroying platelets. Medicine may also be given to help increase platelet levels and prevent bleeding.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Prevent or manage bleeding:

• Care for cuts, scrapes, or nosebleeds. Examine your skin for minor bumps, scrapes, and cuts. These injuries can increase your risk for bleeding that can become life-threatening. Apply firm, steady, pressure to cuts or scrapes. Use gauze or a clean towel. If possible, elevate the body part above the level of your heart. If your nose bleeds, pinch the top of your nose until bleeding stops.
• Be careful with skin and mouth care. Use a soft washcloth when you bathe. Use a soft toothbrush to keep your gums from bleeding. Use lip balm to prevent your lips from cracking. Apply lotion to dry skin. Keep your nails trimmed. If you shave, use an electric shaver.
• Do not strain when you have a bowel movement. The strain can increase pressure in your brain and cause bleeding. Ask your healthcare provider about a stool softener or laxative if you are constipated. Do not use enemas or suppositories.
• Use a cool mist humidifier to increase moisture in your home. Moisture may help prevent coughing or nosebleeds. Coughing can increase pressure in your brain and could cause bleeding.
• Avoid activities that may cause scratches or bruises. You may not be able to play contact sports such as football, hockey, or wrestling. Ask your healthcare provider which activities are safe for you.
• Do not take aspirin or NSAIDs. These medicines can cause you to bleed and bruise more easily.

Medical alert identification:

Wear medical alert jewelry or carry a card that says you have thrombocytopenia. Ask your healthcare provider where to get these items.

Follow up with your doctor or hematologist as directed:

You will need to return for blood tests to check your platelet levels. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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