A new drug called eltrombopag (Promacta) by GlaxoSmithKline, appears to be effective in boosting low platelet counts in patients with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), according to a Glaxo-sponsored study by Duke University Medical Center and other centers worldwide. Low platelet count is a major reasons that many patients can not endure antiviral treatments for hepatitis C. While there are other drugs available to restore platelet counts, they are administered as infusions or injections. Eltrombopag is in pill form, with once-per-day administration.

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