What is Epoetin alfa used for?
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Asked by: Shahmeanah Pereira
Epoetin is used to treat severe anemia in patients on kidney dialysis or for those not on dialysis. Epoetin may also be used to prevent or treat anemia that is caused by surgery or medicines (eg, zidovudine) that are used for other conditions, such as HIV or cancer.
Why do we give epoetin alfa?
Epoetin alfa injection products are used to treat anemia (a lower than normal number of red blood cells) in people with chronic kidney failure (condition in which the kidneys slowly and permanently stop working over a period of time).
What is the therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa?
Epoetin alfa works by signaling the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. This medication is very similar to the natural substance in your body (erythropoietin) that prevents anemia.
What is the primary indication for epoetin?
Epogen is indicated for the treatment of anemia due to chronic kidney disease (CKD), including patients on dialysis and not on dialysis to decrease the need for red blood cell (RBC) transfusion.
How long does it take for epoetin to work?
How soon after starting EPO medication will I feel better? It will take time for EPO medication to work in your body. Most people take 1 to 2 months to feel better.
What is the fastest way to increase red blood cells?
5 nutrients that increase red blood cell counts
- red meat, such as beef.
- organ meat, such as kidney and liver.
- dark, leafy, green vegetables, such as spinach and kale.
- dried fruits, such as prunes and raisins.
- beans.
- legumes.
- egg yolks.
Does anemia cause kidney failure?
Anemia can happen early in the course of kidney disease and grow worse as kidneys fail and can no longer make EPO. Anemia is especially common if you: Have diabetes.
What level of hemoglobin is dangerously high?
The threshold for a high hemoglobin count differs slightly from one medical practice to another. It’s generally defined as more than 16.6 grams (g) of hemoglobin per deciliter (dL) of blood for men and 15 g/dL for women.
What injection is given for low hemoglobin?
Epoetin injection is a man-made version of human erythropoietin (EPO). EPO is produced naturally in the body, mostly by the kidneys. It stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. If the body does not produce enough EPO, severe anemia can occur.
Which medicine is best to increase hemoglobin?
Drugs for Anemia
- Carbonyl Iron. Carbonyl Iron is a dietary supplement, prescribed for iron deficiencies and iron deficiency anemia. …
- Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) …
- Epoetin beta-methoxy polyethylene glycol. …
- Ferrous Ammonium Citrate. …
- Ferrous Fumarate. …
- Iron Sucrose. …
- Nandrolone.
What level of hemoglobin is dangerously low?
What hemoglobin levels are considered severe or dangerously low? A hemoglobin level of less than 5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dl) is dangerous and could lead to heart failure or death. A normal hemoglobin level is 13.2–16.6 grams per deciliter (g/dL) for males and 11.6–15 g/dL for females.
What foods to avoid if you have low hemoglobin?
Foods to avoid
milk and some dairy products. foods that contain tannins, such as grapes, corn, and sorghum. foods that contain phytates or phytic acid, such as brown rice and whole-grain wheat products. foods that contain oxalic acid, such as peanuts, parsley, and chocolate.
