About epoetin beta i u pfs
Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent
Used for
- Treats anaemia caused by chronic kidney disease.
- Treats anaemia in some adults receiving chemotherapy.
- May reduce transfusions during selected surgical procedures.
Usual adult dose
Usually 20–50 IU/kg intravenously or under the skin three times weekly for kidney-related anaemia; dose is adjusted to haemoglobin. For chemotherapy-related anaemia, usually 450 IU/kg weekly.
Usual dose in children
For kidney-related anaemia, usually 50 IU/kg intravenously or under the skin three times weekly; specialist-adjusted.
Common side effects
- High blood pressure
- Headache
- Flu-like symptoms
- Blood clots
Important warnings
- Can cause dangerous high blood pressure or blood clots.
- Use the lowest dose needed to reduce transfusions; excessive haemoglobin increases cardiovascular risks.
- Rarely, severe allergic reactions or pure red cell aplasia occur.
- Regular blood counts and iron assessment are needed.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; pregnancy data are limited. A clinician should weigh benefits and risks.
Breastfeeding
Unknown whether epoetin beta passes into breast milk; use requires clinical assessment.
Interactions
- Cyclosporine levels may rise as red blood cell counts increase.
- Other medicines that raise blood pressure may increase hypertension risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.