Recombinant Human Erythropoietin Alfa
Uses of Recombinant Human Erythropoietin Alfa
Epoetin alfa is commonly used in the treatment of anemia, anemia due to cancer chemotherapy, and anemia due to chronic kidney disease.
How Recombinant Human Erythropoietin 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 Recombinant Human Erythropoietin Alfa
Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Headache, Rash, Fever, Urticaria, Venous/arterial thromboembolism, High blood pressure, Allergic reactions, Seizures
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Recombinant Human Erythropoietin 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 Recombinant Human Erythropoietin 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 Recombinant Human Erythropoietin Alfa should be used only when the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving Generally Safe
There are no studies of Recombinant Human Erythropoietin 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 Recombinant Human Erythropoietin Alfa has not been established yet in liver impairment.
Lactation Limited Data
It remained unknown whether exogenous Recombinant Human Erythropoietin 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 Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
