Epoetin Alfa

Uses of Epoetin Alfa

Epoetin alfa is commonly used in the treatment of anemia, anemia due to cancer chemotherapy, and anemia due to chronic kidney disease.

How Epoetin Alfa Works

Epoetin alfa is a purified glycoprotein hormone which stimulates the production of red blood cells. It is produced by inserting gene coding for human erythropoietin into mammalian cells.

Side Effects of Epoetin Alfa

Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Headache, Rash, Fever, Urticaria, Venous/arterial thromboembolism, High blood pressure, Allergic reactions, Seizures

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Epoetin Alfa should be used with caution in patients with renal disease. Dose adjustment might be required for patients with chronic renal failure.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to drink alcohol with Epoetin Alfa as it will accentuate the blood pressure when taking them simultaneously.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Well-controlled studies are not established in pregnant women. However, animal studies have shown reproduction toxicity. Hence, usage of Epoetin Alfa should be used only when the benefits outweigh the risks.

Driving Generally Safe

There are no studies of Epoetin Alfa on the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Liver Limited Data

It is recommended to use cautiously if patients have chronic liver failure as the safety profile of Epoetin Alfa has not been established yet in liver impairment.

Lactation Limited Data

It remained unknown whether exogenous Epoetin Alfa is excreted in human milk, therefore it should be used with caution. The decision to discontinue breastfeeding or the treatment depends on the benefits of breastfeeding to the infant or benefits of the treatment to the mother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).