Erythropoietin

Erythropoietin is a medicine that helps your bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. It is used to treat a type of anemia caused by kidney disease. It is also used to treat anemia caused by cancer chemotherapy and by taking medicines to treat HIV.

Erythropoietin is given by injection either under the skin or into a vein which will be decided by your doctor. Usually the injections are given by a nurse or doctor. The dose depends on your body weight and the cause of your anemia. Iron supplements both before and during treatment may make this treatment more effective.

Erythropoietin is an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA). It works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells.

• Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease: In patients on dialysis and not on dialysis.
• Zidovudine in HIV-infected Patients: Anemia prevention and treatment.
• Anemia due to Chemotherapy: Due to myelosuppressive chemotherapy effects.
• Reduction of Allogeneic RBC Transfusions: In elective, noncardiac, nonvascular surgery patients.

Drugs for Haemolytic Hypoplastic & Renal Anemia

Erythropoietin (Recombinant)

Erythropoietin regulates erythropoiesis by stimulating the differentiation and proliferation of erythroid precursors, stimulating the release of reticulocytes into the circulation, and synthesis of cellular haemoglobin. Recombinant human erythropoietin is available as epoetin alfa and epoetin beta which are used in the management of anaemias associated with CRF, cancer chemotherapy and anti-AIDS drug zidovudine.

Erythropoietin regulates erythropoiesis by stimulating the differentiation and proliferation of erythroid precursors, stimulating the release of reticulocytes into the circulation, and synthesis of cellular haemoglobin.

Adult Dose:

• CKD-Associated Anemia (Not on dialysis): 50-100 units/kg IV/SC 3 times weekly; initiate when Hb <10 g/dL.
• CKD-Associated Anemia (On dialysis): 50-100 units/kg IV 3 times weekly; initiate when Hb <10 g/dL.
• Chemotherapy-Related Anemia: 150 units/kg IV/SC 3 times weekly or 40,000 units SC once weekly.
• Preparation for Surgery: 300 units/kg SC daily for 15 days or 600 units/kg SC in 4 doses.

Child Dose: As above.

Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.

If you miss a dose of Erythropoietin, please consult your doctor.

Common Side Effects:

• High blood pressure
• Nausea
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Precautions:

• Erythropoietin may cause side effects which could affect your ability to drive.
• Helps in the treatment of anemia caused by chronic kidney disease or cancer chemotherapy.
• Your doctor may get your blood tests done regularly to monitor hemoglobin, blood cells and potassium levels.
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication.
• Inform your doctor if you notice severe headache, problems with eyesight, nausea, vomiting or seizures.
• Stop taking and inform your doctor if you develop shortness of breath or skin rash.

Contraindications:

• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Hypersensitivity to mammalian cell products and human albumin

Drug Interactions:

• Haematinics enhance efficiency.
• Increased dose of heparin in patients undergoing dialysis.

Food Interactions: It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Erythropoietin. Consult your doctor.

Use in Pregnancy: Erythropoietin may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing.

Use in Lactation: Erythropoietin is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.

Pediatric Use: Pediatric dosage provided above.

Geriatric Use: No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.

Renal Impairment: Safe to use in patients with kidney disease; no dose adjustment recommended. Regular monitoring of kidney function tests is advised.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment may be needed.

Overdose: Overdose may cause hypertension, polycythemia, seizures, thrombosis. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

Storage: Store in refrigerator at 2-8°C. Bring to room temperature before use. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Erythropoietin