৳ 3,622/unit
Pack: ৳ 3,622
৳ 3,622/unit
Pack: ৳ 3,622
At a glance
Epoetin beta is an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent used for the treatment of anemia due to chronic renal failure, HIV infection, and cancer chemotherapy.
Indications
- Anaemia of Chronic Renal Failure: Treatment of anemia in CKD patients.
- Anaemia in Zidovudine-treated HIV-infected Patients: Prevention and treatment of anemia in HIV patients.
- Anemia Related to Non-Myeloid Malignant Disease Chemotherapy: Treatment of anemia in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
- To Reduce the Need for Allogenic Blood Transfusion: Reduce transfusion requirements before surgery.
- Anaemia of Prematurity: Treatment of anemia in premature infants.
Pharmacology
Epoetin beta stimulates RBC production in the bone marrows which transmits O2 throughout the body.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Chronic Renal Failure):
- On dialysis (not on ESA therapy): 0.6 mcg/kg IV/SC q2week initially; initiate when Hb <10 g/dL.
- Currently receiving other ESA (epoetin <8000 units/week): 120 mcg/month or 60 mcg/q2week IV/SC
- Epoetin 8000-16000 units/week: 200 mcg/month or 100 mcg/q2week IV/SC
- Epoetin >16000 units/week: 360 mcg/month or 180 mcg/q2week IV/SC
Child Dose: Safety and efficacy not established.
Side effects
Common Side Effects (>10%):
- Hypertension (13%)
- Diarrhea (11%)
- Nasopharyngitis (11%)
Occasional Side Effects (1-10%):
- Headache (9%)
- Upper respiratory tract infection (9%)
- Cough (6%)
- Hypotension (5%)
- Urinary tract infection (5%)
- Arteriovenous fistula thrombosis (5%)
Rare Side Effects: Coronary artery disease, septic shock, serious cardiovascular and thromboembolic events, seizures, PRCA, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Adequate studies not available. Should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
Precautions:
- Caution in hypertension, history of seizure, thrombocytosis, chronic hepatic impairment, ischaemic vascular disease, malignant tumours, epilepsy; recent MI or CVA.
- Iron deficiency, infection, inflammatory disorders, haemolysis and aluminium intoxication may decrease response.
- Regularly monitor platelet counts and serum-potassium concentrations.
- Control haematocrit levels.
- Poorly-controlled hypertension: Monitor BP, Hb and electrolytes.
- Anemia (eg, megaloblastic or folic acid): Give Fe supplements when needed.
- Thrombocytosis: monitor platelet count for 1st 8 weeks.
Overdose effects
Overdose: Overdose may cause hypertension, polycythemia, seizures, thrombosis. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
Storage conditions
Storage: Store at 2-8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light.