ADAP drugs: erythropoeitin

erythropoeitin
(EPO, Epogen, Eprex, Procrit, epoetin alfa)

Drug description

Erythropoetin is used to treat anemia associated with HIV infection or AZT therapy. Anemia is a condition due to a low number of red blood cells. Erythropoetin is a natural hormone secreted by the kidneys that acts on the bone marrow to stimulate production of red blood cells. Recombinant EPO is a synthetic version of this hormone. EPO is approved for treatment of anemia in both AZT-treated HIV+ people, and people with chronic kidney failure. Ortho Biotech, who makes Procrit, has a Patient Assistance Program wich can be reached at (800) 553-3851).

Side effects
EPO is generally well tolerated. Side effects can include chest pain, swelling due to retention of fluid, fast heart beat, headache, high blood pressure, increase in number and concentration of circulating red blood cells, seizures, shortness of breath, skin rash, pain in joints, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, or flu-like syndrome after each dose.

Dosage
EPO must be injected. Initial dosage in studies was 100 units/kg IV 3 times weekly for 8-12 weeks. If the response to treatment is not satisfactory in terms of reducing transfusion requirement after 8 weeks, the dose may be increased by 50-100 units/kg.

How long it may take to work
In studies, many individuals who received transfusions did not require them after 2-3 months of treatment with EPO.

Managing side effects
Preexisting high blood pressure should be controlled before beginning treatment. Flu-like symptoms usually appear within 1 1/2 to two hours after starting the infusion and can last for 2-12 hours. These side effects are generally self-limiting and don’t require dose reduction. Aspirin or Tylenol before infusion of drug and a reduction in the infusion rate can help minimize side effects.

This information is specific to the use of this medication for HIV-related conditions. For additional information about this drug for other conditions, refer to: www.nursespdr.com/ and www.healthanswers.com/Library/library_fset.asp

The drug descriptions on these pages are intended for informational purposes only. The Network does not promote or endorse the use of any specific treatment for any health-related condition. The medications described here can only be dispensed by a licensed health care professional. The information may have changed since these pages were updated, though every effort is made to keep these pages current. Please contact The Network at (800) 734-7104 to make sure you have the most up-to-date information

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