EPOETIN BETA

Epoietin beta is a drug that belongs to a class of medicines known as haematopoietic agents. This drug stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow so that there will be good circulation of oxygen in the body. It is given by injection.

Uses

Epoietin beta is used to treat anemia of chronic kidney disease, anaemia of prematurity in babies, and anemia related to non-myeloid malignant disease. It is also used to increase the yield of autologous blood.

Warnings

Epoietin beta with benzyl alcohol should not be used in young babies less than 1 year of age. It should not be given in people with uncontrolled hypertension.

Side Effects

Epoietin beta may give rise to the following side effects:

Headache
Seizures
Hypertension
Thrombosis at vascular access sites
Clotting in the dialyser
Transient increases in platelet count
Flu-like symptoms including chills
Muscle pain
Increased blood potassium levels
Skin rashes
Hypertensive crisis with encephalopathy-like symptoms, including headache and confusion,
Generalised seizures (patients with normal or low blood pressure)
Anaphylactoid reactions (rare)

Precautions

Precautions

Take extra caution in people with the following conditions:

Hypertension
History of seizure
Chronic liver disease
Malignant tumours or cancer
Epilepsy
Recent stroke or heart attack
Iron deficiency
Infection
Inflammatory disorders
Haemolysis
Aluminium intoxication
Increased platelet count
Breastfeeding

Interaction

Epoietin beta can interact with the following medicines:

ACE inhibitors
Angiotensin-II receptor antagonists

Overdose & Brands

If you think you may have used Epoietin beta more than the usual dose, seek medical help immediately.

Available Brand/s:

Recormon