Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

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

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TTP is a blood disorder that causes anemia and bleeding problems due to low platelet levels. Anemia is low levels of red blood cells. Without enough platelets, you can bleed in your organs, underneath your skin, or from the surface of your skin. TTP can also cause problems with kidney and brain function.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call 911 for any of the following:

• 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 cough up blood.
• You have trouble breathing.

Return to the emergency department if:

• Your heart is beating faster than usual.
• You urinate less than usual or not at all.
• Your skin or the whites of your eyes are yellow.
• Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• You have a fever.
• You have bruises or small red or purple dots on your skin or mucus membranes.
• 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.

• Cablivi
• Adzynma
• apadamtase alfa, recombinant
• caplacizumab

Do not take over-the-counter medicines before you talk to your healthcare provider:

This includes NSAIDs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. These medicines can make TTP worse. Ask your healthcare provider for a full list of medicines you should not take.

Do not play contact sports:

Examples of contact sports include football, wrestling, boxing, or hockey. Ask your healthcare provider which activities are safe for you.

Do not drink or eat anything that contains quinine:

Quinine can make TTP worse. Quinine is found in tonic water, flavored drinks, and some foods. Read all food and drink labels to check for quinine. Ask your healthcare provider for a full list of drinks and foods that contain quinine.

Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:

You will need to return for blood and urine tests. You may need plasmapheresis or plasma transfusions 1 time each week. 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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