Avatrombopag is an orally bioavailable, small molecule thrombopoietin (TPO) receptor agonist that stimulates proliferation and differentiation of megakaryocytes from bone marrow progenitor cells resulting in increased production of platelets. Avatrombopag does not compete with TPO for binding to the TPO receptor and has an additive effect with TPO on platelet production. Avatrombopag was discovered by Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical, developed by AkaRx which late became acquired by Dova Pharmaceuticals. In 2018 avatrombopag was approved by the FDA for thrombocytopenia in adults with chronic liver disease scheduled to undergo a procedure.