Anagrelide hydrochloride and Erythromycin and Benzoyl Peroxide

• Generic Name: anagrelide
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Agrylin

Reduction of elevated platelet counts and associated risk of thromboembolic and hemorrhagic events in patients with thrombocythemia secondary to essential thrombocythemia (ET) and other myeloproliferative disorders. Has been designated an orphan drug by FDA for the treatment of ET.

Management of ET generally based on a risk-stratification approach. Treatment with a cytoreductive agent (e.g., anagrelide, hydroxyurea) usually reserved for patients at high risk (i.e., age >60 years, previous history of thrombosis, and/or platelet count ≥1,500,000/mm3) of developing thromboembolic and/or hemorrhagic complications. Some clinicians also recommend cytoreductive therapy in intermediate-risk ET patients (e.g., 40–60 years of age, platelet count >1,000,000/mm3, and cardiovascular risk factor [smoking, arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, or diabetes mellitus] or familial thrombophilia).

Hydroxyurea (often combined with low-dose aspirin) generally considered drug of choice in high-risk patients with ET because of proven efficacy and infrequent acute toxicity. However, because of potential leukemogenic effects with hydroxyurea when used long term or sequentially with other cytotoxic drugs, anagrelide or interferon alfa suggested as alternative therapy in high-risk patients, particularly younger patients (<40–60 years of age), and in those who do not respond to or cannot tolerate hydroxyurea. Consider cautious use of low-dose aspirin concomitantly with anagrelide based on relative risks of thrombosis and arterial hemorrhage in individual patients. (See Specific Drugs or Foods under Interactions.)

• Generic Name: benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin topical
• Dosage Forms: topical gel
• Other Brand Names: Benzamycin, Benzamycin Pak, Aktipak

Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect. It also has a mild drying effect that allows excess oils and dirt to be easily washed away.

Erythromycin is an antibiotic. Erythromycin topical prevents bacteria from growing on the skin.

Benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin topical (for the skin) is a combination medicine used to treat acne.

Benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.