DARBEPOETIN ALFA
Background and Date of Approval
Darbepoetin alfa is a medication indicated for the treatment of anaemia. It received approval for medical use on 17th September 2001.
Uses
Darbepoetin Alfa Injection has been developed to treat anaemia in children and adults with chronic kidney disease (renal failure) and those receiving chemotherapy for non-bone marrow cancers.
How is it administered?
Darbepoetin alfa is available in injection form in the doses 25mcg, 40mcg, 60mcg, 100mcg, 200mcg, 500mcg. Your physician will calculate the accurate dose after monitoring your blood counts. For chronic renal failure, the initial recommended dose is 0.75mcg/kg bodyweight every two weeks or 0.45mcg/kg bodyweight weekly once. For patients not on dialysis the ideal dose is 1.5mcg/kg bodyweight once monthly. For patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment, the recommended dose is 500mcg once every three weeks or 2.25mcg once weekly.
Side Effects
Darbepoetin alfa causes some side effects like all drugs, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects of Darbepoetin alfa are: High blood pressure Shortness of breath Swelling in the legs or feet Coughing Low blood pressure during procedures Chest pain Problems with dialysis access Fluid buildup in the body Skin rash or redness Blood clots in dialysis access sites Serious side effects of Darbepoetin alfa are: Blood clots (e.g., heart attack, lung clot, stroke) Very high blood pressure Pain at the injection site Seizures in some patients
Warnings
Shortness of breath, chest pain, or excessive sweating : These symptoms may indicate serious health issues and require immediate medical attention. Monitoring of blood parameters : During Darbepoetin Alfa treatment, your doctor may monitor your blood levels to prevent serious complications. History of seizures : If you have a history of seizures, inform your doctor, as this treatment may increase the risk. High blood pressure (Hypertension) : Darbepoetin Alfa can raise blood pressure, which may need management and monitoring. Sickle cell anaemia : If you have this condition, inform your doctor, as it may affect how your body responds to the treatment. Liver disorders and hepatitis C : These conditions can affect treatment, so it is important to report them to your doctor. Heart failure : If you have heart failure, itâs important to let your doctor know, as this condition may require special attention during treatment.
Precautions
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to have a baby, tell your physician before using Darbepoetin Alfa. Since the medication has not been tested in pregnant or breastfeeding women, your physician may advise caution when using this injection during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Also, if you have any known allergies, inform your doctor, as Darbepoetin Alfa may cause allergic reactions in some people. If you experience unusual fatigue or low energy levels, seek immediate medical attention, as it could indicate a serious issue.
Word of Advice
Darbepoetin Alfa does not impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Your doctor will arrange regular blood tests to establish the correct dose and frequency for your treatment.
References
Goodman & Gilmanâs, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Hematopoietic agents, 12th edition, 1071 - 1072. Amgen Europe BV, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Feb 2021] [Accessed on 13th Aug 2021], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6958.pdf Anna Maria Libudzic-Nowak et al., Darbepoetin Alfa in Young Infants With Renal Failure: Single Center Experience, a Case Series and Review of the Literature, Sec. Pediatric Nephrology, Published on 18th Dec 2018, Accessed on 13th Aug 2022, https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fped.2018.00398/full
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Darbepoetin alfa Injection administered?
Darbepoetin alfa is available in injection form in the doses 25mcg, 40mcg, 60mcg, 100mcg, 200mcg, 500mcg. Your physician will calculate the accurate dose after monitoring your blood counts. It is administered under the skin or through the vein.
What are the common side effects of Darbepoetin alfa?
High blood pressure, stroke, pain at the site of injection, rash, redness, fluid retention, blood clots, etc are some of the most common side effects one can experience with this treatment.
What should you not take with Darbepoetin Alfa?
It is not recommended to take other medicines that stimulate red blood cell production while on this treatment. Tell your physician if you are taking cyclosporine, tacrolimus, vitamin or herbal supplements.
Who should not take Darbepoetin Alfa Injection?
Darbepoetin alfa Injection is not recommended for people with a history of seizures, blood pressure, sickle cell anaemia, liver disorders, hepatitis C, allergies or heart failure.
What should you know before starting Darbepoetin alfa treatment?
During the Darbepoetin Alfa injection treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood parameters to prevent serious complications. Exercise caution while using this injection during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
How to deal with the side effects of Darbepoetin alfa?
Monitor your blood pressure regularly and report to your doctor if it is high. Seek medical treatment if your blood pressure is constantly high as high BP increases the risk of blood clots.
When should you report to your physician?
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain or excessive sweating.