Epoetin Alfa injection

What is epoetin alfa injection?

EPOETIN ALFA (Epogen®, Procrit®) is a man-made form of erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells. Sometimes, your body does not make enough erythropoietin, and that may cause anemia. Epoetin alfa acts treats anemia associated with chronic kidney failure, cancer chemotherapy, or HIV-therapy. Epoetin alfa may also be used before surgery if you have anemia. Generic epoetin alfa injections are not available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• blood clotting disorders

• cystic fibrosis

• enlarged spleen

• heart disease, such as angina or heart failure

• high blood pressure

• infection

• leukemia

• low levels of folate, iron, or vitamin B₁₂

• over-active parathyroid gland

• porphyria

• seizures

• sickle cell disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to erythropoietin, albumin, benzyl alcohol, hamster proteins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Epoetin alfa is for injection into a vein or under the skin. A health-care professional in a hospital or clinic setting may give it to you. If you are given erythropoietin for home use, you will be instructed in the proper injection technique. Make sure you understand all the instructions before you or your caregiver attempt to give the first injection. Follow the directions exactly. Always wash your hands before use. Only use a disposable syringe once. Always change the site for the injection. Do not shake the solution before you withdraw a dose.

Make sure you receive a puncture-resistant container to dispose of the needles and syringes once you have finished with them. Do not reuse these items. Return the container to your prescriber or health care professional for proper disposal.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

Try not to miss doses. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for instructions if you miss a dose.

What drug(s) may interact with epoetin alfa?

• desmopressin

• iron supplements (you may need more iron while taking epoetin)

• male hormones (called androgens such as nandrolone or testosterone)

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking epoetin alfa?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress and for the needed blood tests and blood pressure measurements. It is especially important for the doctor to make sure your hemoglobin level is in the desired range, to limit the risk of potential side effects and to give you the best benefit. Keep all appointments for any recommended tests. Check your blood pressure as directed. Ask your doctor what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her.

As your body makes more red blood cells, you may need to take iron, folic acid, or vitamin B supplements. Ask your doctor or health care provider which products are right for you. If you have kidney disease continue dietary restrictions, even though this medication can make you feel better. Talk with your doctor or health care professional.

What side effects may I notice from receiving epoetin alfa?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• chest pain

• confusion, trouble speaking or understanding

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• headaches

• high blood pressure

• muscle aches or pains

• pain, swelling, warmth in the leg

• rapid weight gain

• seizures

• severe headaches

• sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg

• trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

• swelling of feet or ankles

• unusual weakness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• fever, chills (flu-like symptoms)

• nausea, vomiting

• redness, stinging, or swelling at the injection site

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F); do not freeze. Do not shake. Throw away any unused portion if using a single-dose vial. Multi-dose vials can be kept in the refrigerator for 21 days after the initial dose and between doses. Throw away unused portion.