Epoetin (Systemic)
Brand Names : Epogen, Procrit, Eprex, human erythropoietin, recombinant, EPO, r-HuEPO
Precautions While Using This MedicineEpoetin
sometimes causes convulsions (seizures), especially during the first 90 days
of treatment. During this time, it is best to avoid driving, operating heavy
machinery, or other activities that could cause a serious injury if a seizure
occurs while you are performing them.
People with severe anemia usually feel very tired and sick. When epoetin
begins to work, usually in about 6 weeks, most people start to feel better.
Some people are able to be more active. However, epoetin only corrects anemia.
It has no effect on kidney disease or any other medical problem that needs
regular medical attention. Therefore, even if you are feeling much better,
it is very important that you do not miss any appointments
with your doctor or any dialysis treatments
.
Many people with kidney problems need to be on a special diet. Also, people
with high blood pressure (which may be caused by kidney disease or by epoetin
treatment) may need to be on a special diet and/or to take medicine to keep
their blood pressure under control. After their anemia has been corrected,
some people feel so much better that they want to eat more than before. To
keep your kidney disease or your high blood pressure from getting worse, it is very important that you follow your special diet and take
your medicines regularly
, even if you are feeling better.
In addition to epoetin, your body needs iron to make red blood cells. Your
doctor may direct you to take iron supplements. He or she may also direct
you to take certain vitamins that help the iron work better. Be sure to follow your doctor's orders carefully
, because epoetin will
not work properly if there is not enough iron in your body.
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