Epoetin alfa: how to take it safely
Eprex, Epogen, Binocrit, Hemax
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats anaemia caused by kidney disease or chemotherapy by helping the body make red blood cells.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Inject under the skin or into a vein as your health worker showed you. Change the spot each time.
- Keep it in the fridge. Do not shake the vial.
When to take it
Inject 1 to 3 times a week, or as your doctor says.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Missing your blood pressure checks. Treatment can raise blood pressure.
- Using it if your blood pressure is not controlled.
- Tell your doctor if you have had a stroke, heart attack or blood clot.
- Not taking the iron your doctor told you to take.
Possible side effects
Headache, high blood pressure, joint pain, flu-like symptoms, pain at the injection site.
Get help if
Severe headache, chest pain, a swollen painful leg, sudden weakness, confusion, or a seizure: get urgent help. Tiredness getting worse with a low blood count: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.