Epoetin Alfa

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Epoetin Alfa is available as a sterile, colourless liquid for injection to be administered subcutaneously or intravenously.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Epoetin Alfa is meant for use in both adults and children. Specifically, it can be used in children who are on dialysis due to chronic kidney disease.

Contraindications

• Epoetin Alfa is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension, pure red cell aplasia following treatment with any erythropoiesis-stimulating agent and known serious allergic reactions to Epoetin Alfa or any of its components.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Epoetin Alfa can interact with immunosuppressants (such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus), ACE inhibitors (like captopril and fosinopril) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (azilsartan and candesartan), androgens, and live virus vaccines.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose may lead to symptoms such as hypertension and increased thromboembolic events. In such cases, seek immediate medical attention.
• If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double-dose.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For mild nausea or dizziness, rest and avoid sudden movements.
• Stay well-hydrated if experiencing mild headaches or dizziness after administration.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Epoetin Alfa may cause dizziness or fatigue in some individuals. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Epoetin Alfa should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under doctor's supervision as it falls under pregnancy category C.
• Caution should be exercised when this medication is administered to breastfeeding women. Consult your doctor before using during lactation too.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of seizures, chronic liver failure or porphyria, and sickle cell anaemia should use this medication cautiously.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain adequate iron intake through diet or supplements as recommended by your doctor since Epoetin Alfa requires sufficient iron levels to be effectively utilized in red blood cell production.
• Ensuring a balanced diet rich in vitamins, especially B12 and folate, which are crucial for red blood cell formation and overall blood health.
• Regular monitoring of blood pressure is advisable, especially for patients at risk of hypertension.
• Stay hydrated and follow a moderate exercise routine approved by your doctor to enhance overall health without overexertion, which can be detrimental in conditions requiring Epoetin Alfa.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions