Erythropoietin Alfa
Generic Details
Generic Name
Erythropoietin-alfa
Other Names
- EPO
- Epogen
- Procrit
Drug Class
- Hematopoietic agent
- Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent
Chemical Formula
C815H1317N239O299S6
Molecular Weight
18396.6 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulates red blood cell production by the bone marrow
Indications
- Anemia associated with chronic kidney disease
- Anemia in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
- Anemia in HIV-infected patients taking zidovudine
Common Dosage Forms
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- 50-100 units/kg 3 times a week or 150 units/kg once a week for CKD patients
- 200 units/kg 3 times a week for cancer patients
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosing based on weight and indication
Geriatric Dosage
- May require lower doses due to decreased renal function
Side Effects
- Hypertension
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fever
- Injection site reactions
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) that begins after treatment with EPO
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Compatible with breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Anticoagulants
- Immunosuppressants
- Erythropoietic agents
Overdose Symptoms
- Polycythemia
- Hypertension
Antidote for Overdose
- Phlebotomy
Storage Conditions
- Refrigerate at 2-8°C (36-46°F)
- Do not freeze
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapid and complete after subcutaneous or intravenous injection
- Distribution: Mainly in the bone marrow
- Metabolism: Not extensively metabolized
- Excretion: Primarily via the kidneys
Precautions
- Hypertension monitoring
- Hemoglobin monitoring
- Thrombotic events risk
Warnings
- Increased risk of cardiovascular events
- May increase tumor growth in cancer patients
- Risk of pure red cell aplasia with long-term use
Others
- Regular monitoring of hemoglobin levels is essential during treatment.