Epoetin 3000 IU Injection

Uses of Epoetin 3000 IU Injection

• Anemia due to chronic kidney disease
• Anemia due to cancer chemotherapy

How does Epoetin 3000 IU Injection work?

Erythropoietin stimulates erythropoiesis by promoting the differentiation and proliferation of erythroid precursors, releasing reticulocytes, and synthesizing cellular hemoglobin.

How to administer Epoetin 3000 IU Injection?

• Epoetin 3000 IU Injection is administered via injection, either subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously (into a vein), as determined by your doctor.
• Typically, injections are given by a healthcare professional, such as a nurse or doctor.
• Dosage is determined based on body weight and the underlying cause of anemia.

Side Effects of Epoetin 3000 IU Injection

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, fever, and increased blood pressure are among the most commonly reported side effects.
• Flu-like symptoms such as headache, fatigue, dizziness, and body aches may also occur, especially at the beginning of treatment.
• If side effects persist, your doctor may suggest ways to manage or alleviate them.

Serious Side Effects:

• Inform your doctor immediately if you experience seizures (fits) or any other serious side effects.
• Epoetin 3000 IU Injection may rarely cause severe blood clots, requiring urgent medical attention.

Quick Suggestions:

• The administration of Erythropoietin should only be done by a qualified medical practitioner and should not be self-administered.
• The appropriate dosage and duration of therapy will be determined by your doctor based on your specific clinical condition.
• Individuals who are allergic to Erythropoietin should not use this medication. Make sure to inform your doctor about all the medicines and supplements you are currently taking
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor before taking Erythropoietin, as its safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been fully established.
• Additionally, Erythropoietin is not recommended for use in children below 5 years of age due to a lack of sufficient data regarding its safety and efficacy in this age group.
• Always seek medical advice and guidance before starting or discontinuing any medication.
• It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully, as abrupt discontinuation of this medicine can potentially worsen your condition.

Indication of Epoetin 3000 IU Injection

Anemia Associated with Chronic Renal Failure (CKD):

• For patients on dialysis and those not on dialysis.

Anemia in Non-Myeloid Malignancies Due to Chemotherapy:

• When anemia results from concomitant chemotherapy.

Anemic Patients Scheduled for Elective Surgery:

• To reduce the need for allogeneic blood transfusions.

Anemia Related to Zidovudine Therapy in HIV-Infected Patients:

• When zidovudine therapy induces anemia.

Pharmacology

Epoetin 3000 IU Injection available as epoetin alfa and epoetin beta, functions by regulating erythropoiesis, the process of red blood cell production. It achieves this by:

• Stimulating the differentiation and proliferation of erythroid precursors: Epoetin encourages the development and multiplication of precursor cells that eventually mature into red blood cells.
• Stimulating the release of reticulocytes into circulation: Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells released from the bone marrow into the bloodstream. Epoetin promotes this release, thereby increasing the number of circulating red blood cells.
• Synthesis of cellular hemoglobin: Epoetin enhances the production of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells. This ensures that the newly produced red blood cells are fully functional.

Dosage & Administration of Epoetin 3000 IU Injection

Adult Dose:

• Chronic Kidney Disease: Initially 50-100 units/kg IV/SC 3 times weekly.
• Zidovudine-Related Anemia: Initially 100 units/kg IV/SC 3 times weekly.
• Chemotherapy-Related Anemia: Initially 150 units/kg IV/SC 3 times weekly.
• Preparation for Surgery: Initially 300 units/kg SC once daily for 15 days.

Child Dose:

• Chronic Kidney Disease: Initially 50 units/kg IV/SC 3 times weekly.
• Zidovudine-Related Anemia: 50-400 units/kg SC/IV 2-3 times weekly.
• Chemotherapy-Related Anemia (5-18 years): Initially 600 units/kg IV once weekly.

Interaction

Haematinics may enhance efficiency, and heparin dose may need adjustment in dialysis patients.

Contraindications

• Uncontrolled Hypertension
• Hypersensitivity to Mammalian Cell Products or Human Albumin

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Since there are no controlled studies of Epoetin 3000 IU in pregnant women, and because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human responses, Epoetin 3000 IU should be used during pregnancy only if needed. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Epoetin 3000 IU is administered to a nursing woman.

Precautions & Warnings

• Use cautiously in patients with controlled hypertension, ischemic vascular disease, history of seizures, or suspected allergy.
• Evaluate iron stores before and during therapy. Most patients will require supplemental iron.

Storage Conditions

Epoetin 3000 IU Injection should be stored in a refrigerator but used at room temperature.