When taking eltrombopag, diet directly affects drug absorption and efficacy. Mastering the correct dietary principles is an important part of ensuring safe and effective treatment.

I. Timing of Medication and Food Intake

1. Take on an Empty Stomach or with a Low-Calcium Meal

Eltrombopag should be taken on an empty stomach or with a low-calcium meal (calcium content not exceeding 50 mg). A high-calcium diet can significantly reduce drug absorption and affect efficacy.

2. Separate in Time from High-Calcium Foods

Before and after taking eltrombopag, it should be separated from medications or foods containing polyvalent cations by at least 2 hours (before the dose) or 4 hours (after the dose). These substances can bind to the drug and reduce absorption.

3. Avoid Taking with a High-Calcium Meal

Milk, yogurt, cheese and other dairy products, as well as calcium-fortified juices, have high calcium content and should not be taken at the same time as eltrombopag. If they need to be consumed, they should be separated in time from the medication.

II. Foods and Supplements to Avoid

1. Supplements Containing Polyvalent Cations

Mineral supplements such as iron, calcium, aluminum, magnesium, selenium, and zinc can chelate with eltrombopag and reduce its efficacy. Before taking them, consult a doctor and arrange the timing appropriately.

2. Antacids

Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium (such as stomach medications) also affect absorption and must be taken at least 2 hours or 4 hours apart from eltrombopag.

3. Pay Attention to Certain Fruits and Vegetables

Some fruits and vegetables have relatively high calcium content, such as small fish with bones and dark green leafy vegetables. When consumed in large amounts, they should be separated in time from the medication and avoided in the same meal.

III. Dietary Pairing Recommendations for Daily Life

1. Maintain a Low-Calcium Dietary Structure

In daily life, low-calcium foods such as rice, noodles, lean meat, eggs, and fish can be chosen as meals when taking the medication to ensure calcium content is kept within a safe range.

2. Moderately Intake Protein and Vitamins

A balanced intake of high-quality protein and fresh vegetables helps maintain body functions. However, it should be noted that high-calcium ingredients should be consumed during the intervals between doses.

3. Avoid Alcohol and Irritating Foods

Alcohol may increase the burden on the liver. Eltrombopag itself carries a risk of hepatotoxicity, so alcohol should be avoided during treatment. Spicy and irritating foods should also be consumed in moderation to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

4. Special Precautions for Oral Suspension

If the oral suspension is used, it can only be prepared with cool or cold water, not hot water. It should be taken immediately after preparation, and any unused portion after 30 minutes should be discarded.

5. Maintain Adequate Hydration

Drinking an appropriate amount of water helps drug metabolism and excretion, but milk or calcium-fortified beverages should not be used to take the medication. Warm boiled water is the safest choice.