EPOETIN ALFA
Epoetin alfa is a laboratory made version of erythropoietin, the hormone the kidneys release to tell the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. It is given by injection when the body cannot make enough of that signal on its own.
What Epoetin Alfa Is Used For
- Anaemia caused by long term kidney disease, including patients on dialysis
- Anaemia related to chemotherapy
- Reducing the need for blood transfusion in selected patients
Common Side Effects
- Raised blood pressure
- Headache and joint aches
- Pain or redness where the injection is given
Precautions
Blood pressure and haemoglobin are monitored closely during treatment, because pushing the red cell count too high raises the risk of clotting. Iron stores are usually checked as well, since the marrow cannot respond without enough iron. The injection needs cold storage, so keep it refrigerated and never freeze it.
This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.
