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CHEMICAL NAME
EPOETIN ALFA.
INDICATIONS
This medication stimulates the body to make red blood cells. It is used in the treatment of various anemia conditions.
DIRECTIONS
This medication is given as an injection usually one to three times a week. It is important that blood tests be done frequently to check effectiveness of the medication and determine the correct dose.
SIDE EFFECTS
This medication is generally well tolerated. Headache, nausea, muscle aches, diarrhea and cough may occur. Inform your doctor if these symptoms persist or worsen. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following while taking this medication: rapid heartbeat, irritation at the injection site. Rarely, this medication can lose its effectiveness after a period of time, and a very serious anemia can result. Tell your doctor immediately if symptoms of anemia reoccur, such as increased fatigue/weakness, or pale skin color. An allergic reaction to this drug is very unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: blood disorders, heart problems, high blood pressure, seizure disorders, kidney problems, blood vessel problems, any allergies. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death), if given in large amounts (more than 100 mg/kg daily) to an infant during the first months of life (neonatal period). The risk is also greater with low birth weight infants. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur. If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. Epoetin alfa should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if epoetin alfa is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
OVERDOSAGE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
INFORMATION
Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this product, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Dispose of properly after use. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain local regulations for ing an appropriate container and properly disposing of the container when it is full. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
NOTES
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your
healthcare professional before taking the product.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of all medication you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: high blood pressure medicine, heparin, desmopressin, probenecid, iron supplements (vitamins). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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