Epoetin beta


Generic Medicine Info
Indications and Dosage
Parenteral
Anaemia of chronic renal failure
Adult: Given via SC route: 60 units/kg/wk for 4 wk. Dose may be divided to be given on daily or 3 times/wk. When admin via IV, initial dose: 40 units/kg 3 times/wk for 4 wk. May be increased to 80 units/kg 3 times/wk. For SC and IV routes, subsequent doses can be increased at 60 units/kg/wk until target is reached.

Parenteral
Increase yield of autologous blood
Adult: 200-800 units/kg by IV inj, or 150-600 units/kg by SC inj, twice weekly for 4 weeks before surgery.

Subcutaneous
Anaemia of prematurity
Adult: 250 units/kg 3 times wkly. Treatment should be started as early as possible and continued for 6 wk.

Subcutaneous
Anaemia related to non-myeloid malignant disease chemotherapy
Adult: 450 units/kg weekly as a single dose or divided into 3-7 doses. May double dose after 4 weeks, if necessary.  Discontinue treatment if no adequate response achieved after 4 weeks at higher dose. 
Contraindications
Uncontrolled hypertension. Neonates: injections containing benzyl alcohol.
Special Precautions
Hypertension, history of seizure, thrombocytosis, chronic hepatic impairment, ischaemic vascular disease, malignant tumours, epilepsy; recent MI or CVA. Fe deficiency, infection, inflammatory disorders, haemolysis and aluminium intoxication may decrease response to epoetin beta. Regularly monitor platelet counts and serum-potassium concentrations. Control haematocrit levels. Poorly-controlled hypertension: Monitor BP, Hb and electrolytes. Anaemia (eg, megaloblastic or folic acid): Give Fe supplements when needed. Thromobocytosis: monitor platelet count for 1st 8 wk. Lactation.
Adverse Reactions
Headache, seizures; hypertension; thrombosis at vascular access sites, clotting in the dialyser, transient increases in platelet count, flu-like symptoms including chills, myalgia, hyperkalaemia, skin rashes; hypertensive crisis with encephalopathy-like symptoms, including headache and confusion, generalised seizures (patients with normal or low blood pressure). Rarely, anaphylactoid reactions.
Drug Interactions
Antagonises the hypotensive effects of ACE inhibitors and angiotensin-II receptor antagonists and increases risk of hyperkalaemia
Action
Description:
Mechanism of Action: Epoetin beta stimulates RBC production in the bone marrows which transmits O2 through out the body.
Pharmacokinetics:
Absorption: Absorbed slowly and incompletely following SC admin at 23-43%.
Storage
Refrigerate at 2-8°C.
MIMS Class
Haematopoietic Agents
Disclaimer: This information is independently developed by MIMS based on Epoetin beta from various references and is provided for your reference only. Therapeutic uses, prescribing information and product availability may vary between countries. Please refer to MIMS Product Monographs for specific and locally approved prescribing information. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, MIMS shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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