Generic
name: Erythropoietin Injection
Brand name: Epogen, Procrit, and Eprex
Description
Erythropoietin is a type of protein that occurs naturally in the
body. EPOETIN ALFA is a man-made form of erythropoietin, which
stimulates the production of red blood cells. Our red blood cells
contain haemoglobin, which carries oxygen around the body. If your
haemoglobin level falls too low after treatment with certain types
of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, your doctor may recommend a course
of erythropoietin.
Appearance :
It is a colourless fluid in a small glass bottle or a pre-filled
syringe.
Uses
- It stimulates the bone marrow to make red blood cells.
- It is sometimes given as an alternative to a blood
transfusion.
How to use \ dosage ?
Erythropoietin is normally given by an injection under the skin
(subcutaneously), most often in the thigh or abdomen. It can be
given from once a day, to one injection every three weeks, depending
on the type of erythropoietin used and on advice from your doctor.
Follow the directions exactly. Do not shake the solution before you
withdraw a dose.
Safety tips
Your consultant must know if you have the following conditions :
- Serious high blood pressure patients beyond control
- Hypertensive encephalopathy is there
- Leukemia
- Heart disease, such as angina or heart failure
- Enlarged spleen
- Over-active parathyroid gland
- Sickle cell disease
- Breast-feeding
- Cystic fibrosis
Common side effects
Effects are
- Weakness
- Flu like symptoms
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Skin irritation at the injection site
- Poor appetite
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
Disclaimer:The above information is for general
understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical
practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.
