Erythropoietin Beta
Generic Details
Generic Name
Erythropoietin-Beta
Other Names
- EPO
- Epoetin Beta
Drug Class
- Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agent
Chemical Formula
C815H1317N233O241S5
Molecular Weight
18398.0 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow
Indications
- Anemia associated with chronic kidney disease
- Anemia in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy
- Anemia in HIV-infected patients
Common Dosage Forms
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- 50-150 units/kg three times weekly subcutaneously
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosage should be determined based on weight and medical condition
Geriatric Dosage
- Dosage adjustments may be needed based on renal function
Side Effects
- Hypertension
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Pure red cell aplasia due to EPO antibodies
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Unknown if excreted in human milk, use caution
Drug Interactions
- Antihypertensives may potentiate the blood pressure effects of EPO
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypertension
- Seizures
- Headache
Antidote for Overdose
- Monitor vital signs and provide supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Store in the refrigerator at 2-8°C, do not freeze
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after subcutaneous injection
- Distribution: Mainly distributed in the bone marrow
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver and bone marrow
- Excretion: Primarily excreted by the kidneys
Precautions
- Monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment
- Risk of thrombotic events
Warnings
- Increased risk of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and thromboembolism in patients with chronic kidney disease when hemoglobin levels are >11 g/dL