Epoetin
Also known as: Human Erythropoitin
Epoetin is a recombinant human erythropoitin, a 165 amino acid glycoprotein produced by Chinese hamster ovary cells into which a human erythropoietin gene has been inserted. Epoetin is used as an antianemic. It increases red blood cells (RBCs) production in body and effective in the treatment of anemia associated with chronic renal failure or dialysis or anemia caused by AZT in HIV-infected persons. Epoetin is administered intravenously or subcutaneously.
Primary Characteristics
Epoetin is also known as Human Erythropoitin.
It is of Natural origin and belongs to Glycoprotein.
It belongs to Erythropoietin agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Colony Stimulating Factor pharmacological group. It is also classified under Hematological Agents .
Molecular Weight: 30400 · Solubility in Water: soluble · Non-proprietary name: Epoetin.
Pharmacokinetics
Distribution: Epoetin has a volume of distribution is 49.3 ml/kg.
Elimination: it is metabolised via low via liver, plasma half-life is 3.8-5.6 hr, renal excretion is 10%.
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Indications
Epoetin is primarily indicated in conditions like Acceleration of myeloid recovery following bone marrow transplantation, Anaemia.
Epoetin is also indicated for secondary conditions like Orthostatic hypotension.
Contraindications
Epoetin is contraindicated in conditions like Erythroid leukaemia, Uncontrolled hypertension.
Dosage
Epoetin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 187.5 IU/ kg | 187.5 IU/ kg | — | IV | Maintenance for thrice a Week |
| 62.5 IU/ kg | 62.5 IU/ kg | — | IV,SC | Initially for thrice a Week |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 50 IU/kg | 50 IU/kg | Every 8h | Intra Venous | Initially per week, As required |
| 105 IU/kg | 105 IU/kg | Every 8h | Intra Venous | Maintenance, As Required |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 50 IU/kg | 50 IU/kg | Every 8h | Intravenous | Initially 3 times per week |
| 112.5 IU/kg | 112.5 IU/kg | Every 8h | Intravenous | Maintenance, as required |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Epoetin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hyperkalemia , Grand mal seizures, Increased mean arterial BP, Thrombosis. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Epoetin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Dizziness, Headache, Muscular aches, Shivering .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Epoetin may interfere in the diagnosis of Serum Tests for Uric Acid , Complete blood cell count.
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.10.4 — Anabolics & hematopoietics