Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is caused by autoimmune platelet disintegration and has no known aetiology. Splenectomy, immunosuppressants, intravenous immunoglobulins, anti-D immunoglobulins, rituximab, thrombopoietin receptor agonists, corticosteroids, and other drugs can treat chronic ITP. Most people improve with existing treatments, although a small minority may develop resistance or not improve. Numerous processes suspected to contribute to ITP pathogenesis have been identified in recent years, and attempts are underway to create new treatments that target these pathways. Nanomaterials and other novel agents offer an alternative to transdermal drug delivery systems including patches, gels, sprays, and lotions, but transport mechanisms must be understood. Current ITP approaches and novel treatments are summarised below.