Darbepoetin Alfa - Drug Information
Generic Name : Darbepoetin Alfa
Pronunciation : dar-be-POE-e-tin AL-fa al-BUE-min
ICD Code : | Therapeutic Classification : Hematopoietic
Trade Name(s) :
India - Cresp (40 mcg), Cresp PFS (40 mcg), Cresp PFS (25mcg), Cresp (25mcg)International - Aranesp.
Why is Darbepoetin Alfa Prescribed? (Indications)
This medication is an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent, prescribed for anemia due to chronic kidney disease. It stimulates the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells.
When should Darbepoetin Alfa not to be taken? (Contraindications)
Contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure, and known hypersensitivity.
What is the dosage of Darbepoetin Alfa?
SC/IV- The initial dose is 0.45 mcg/kg body weight, as a single injection once weekly.
For patients not receiving dialysis:
The initial dose is 0.75 mcg/kg as a single injection once every 2 weeks.
How should Darbepoetin Alfa be taken?
It comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein or under the skin.
What are the warnings and precautions for Darbepoetin Alfa?
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of high blood pressure, heart disease, blood in stool, seizures, cancer, certain bone problem, blood disease, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.* It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
What are the side effects of Darbepoetin Alfa?
Local - Injection site pain.Body As A Whole - Swelling in the extremities, fatigue, fever, death, fluid retention, influenza-like symptoms, weakness and bleeding.
Heart - High or low blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm, heart arrest, chest pain and heart failure.
Central Nervous System - Headache and dizziness.
Gastrointestinal - Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and constipation.
Musculoskeletal - Muscle spasm, joint pain, limb pain and back pain.
Respiratory - Upper respiratory tract infection, difficulty in breathing, cough and lung inflammation.
Skin - Itching.