Darbepoetin Alfa

 
Generic Name: darbepoetin alfa

Brands: Aranesp

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What is the most important information I should know about Darbepoetin Alfa?

· Do not give yourself an injection if you are not sure how to inject the medication, how much to inject, or how often to inject the medication. Call your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for instruction.

 

What is Darbepoetin Alfa?

· Darbepoetin Alfa is a man-made form of a naturally occurring protein called erythropoietin. Erythropoietin is produced in the kidney and stimulates the production of red blood cells. The amount of erythropoietin in the body may be diminished when the kidneys are damaged. Medications may also decrease the number of red blood cells.

· Darbepoetin Alfa is used to treat anemia by stimulating red blood cell production.

· Darbepoetin Alfa may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Darbepoetin Alfa?

· Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have     ·high blood pressure;     ·heart disease;     ·epilepsy or another seizure disorder; or     ·cancer.

· You may not be able to use Darbepoetin Alfa, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· Darbepoetin Alfa is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Darbepoetin Alfa will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· It is also not known whether Darbepoetin Alfa passes into breast milk. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I use Darbepoetin Alfa?

· Use Darbepoetin Alfa exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Darbepoetin Alfa is injected either subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously (into a vein). Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist will give you specific instructions on how and where to inject the medication. Do not give yourself an injection if you are not sure how to inject the medication, how much to inject, or how often to inject the medication. Call your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for instruction.

· Do not shake the vial of Darbepoetin Alfa. Vigorous shaking can ruin the medication.

· Do not inject any medication that is discolored or has particles in it.

· Do not mix Darbepoetin Alfa with any other injectable medications.

· Properly store and discard all syringes and needles.

· Vials of Darbepoetin Alfa do not contain a preservative. Throw away any remaining medication after using a single dose from each vial.

· Your doctor may want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests and frequent monitoring of blood pressure during treatment with Darbepoetin Alfa.

· Store Darbepoetin Alfa in the refrigerator at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit).

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of Darbepoetin Alfa.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention.

· Symptoms of a Darbepoetin Alfa overdose are not known.

 

What should I avoid while using Darbepoetin Alfa?

· There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking darbepoetin unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

 

What are the possible side effects of Darbepoetin Alfa?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using Darbepoetin Alfa and seek emergency medical treatment or contact your doctor immediately:     ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);     ·seizures;     ·stroke; or     ·heart problems (chest pain, shortness of breath, fluid retention, irregular heartbeats).

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use Darbepoetin Alfa and talk to your doctor if you experience     ·increased blood pressure;     ·headache;     ·tiredness;     ·dizziness;     ·nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;     ·muscle or joint aches;     ·fever;     ·shortness of breath or coughing; or     ·redness, swelling, or itching at injection site.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect Darbepoetin Alfa?

· It is not known whether Darbepoetin Alfa will interact with other medicines. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Darbepoetin Alfa written for health professionals that you may read.

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