Eporen
Generic Name
Epoetin Alfa
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| eporen 5000 iu injection | ৳ 2,106.32 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Epoetin alfa is a recombinant human erythropoietin, a glycoprotein that stimulates red blood cell production. Eporen-5000-IU-Injection is used to treat anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, chemotherapy, or certain other medical conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage is highly individualized based on indication and patient response. For CKD, typically 50-100 IU/kg three times weekly. For chemotherapy-induced anemia, 150-300 IU/kg three times weekly or 40,000-60,000 IU once weekly.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustments required for elderly patients, but careful monitoring is advised due to potential comorbidities.
Renal_impairment
Primary indication for use. Dose is adjusted to achieve and maintain target hemoglobin levels (e.g., 10-11 g/dL) and prevent the need for blood transfusions.
How to Take
Eporen-5000-IU-Injection can be administered by subcutaneous (SC) or intravenous (IV) injection. Do not shake the vial. Administer undiluted. Rotate injection sites if given subcutaneously.
Mechanism of Action
Epoetin alfa stimulates erythropoiesis by binding to the erythropoietin receptor on erythroid progenitor cells, leading to their proliferation and differentiation into mature red blood cells.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects (increase in hemoglobin) are typically observed within 2-6 weeks of initiation.
Excretion
Minor renal excretion of intact epoetin. Catabolism primarily occurs through receptor-mediated uptake and degradation.
Half life
The elimination half-life is approximately 4-13 hours for IV administration and 13-24 hours for SC administration.
Absorption
Subcutaneous (SC) absorption is slow and prolonged, reaching peak serum concentrations in 12-18 hours. Intravenous (IV) administration results in immediate peak concentrations.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA) that begins after treatment with Epoetin Alfa or other erythropoietin protein drugs
- Known hypersensitivity to mammalian cell-derived products or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Iron supplements
Epoetin alfa requires adequate iron stores for effective erythropoiesis. Iron supplementation is often necessary.
No direct drug-drug interactions
No significant direct drug-drug interactions have been reported with epoetin alfa.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Do not shake.
Overdose
Overdose of epoetin alfa can lead to polycythemia, excessive red blood cell counts. In such cases, phlebotomy (blood letting) may be indicated to reduce hematocrit. Discontinue treatment temporarily and monitor.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown whether epoetin alfa is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA) that begins after treatment with Epoetin Alfa or other erythropoietin protein drugs
- Known hypersensitivity to mammalian cell-derived products or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Iron supplements
Epoetin alfa requires adequate iron stores for effective erythropoiesis. Iron supplementation is often necessary.
No direct drug-drug interactions
No significant direct drug-drug interactions have been reported with epoetin alfa.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Do not shake.
Overdose
Overdose of epoetin alfa can lead to polycythemia, excessive red blood cell counts. In such cases, phlebotomy (blood letting) may be indicated to reduce hematocrit. Discontinue treatment temporarily and monitor.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown whether epoetin alfa is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 18-36 months when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Hospitals, Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of epoetin alfa in treating anemia across various indications, including CKD, chemotherapy-induced anemia, and HIV-related anemia. Ongoing research explores optimized dosing strategies and new applications.
Lab Monitoring
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels (at least weekly until stable, then regularly)
- Blood pressure (regularly)
- Iron status (serum ferritin, transferrin saturation)
Doctor Notes
- Carefully monitor hemoglobin levels and adjust dose to maintain levels within the recommended target range (e.g., 10-11 g/dL). Avoid exceeding 11 g/dL due to increased risks.
- Assess and manage iron status; iron supplementation is often crucial for optimal response.
- Regularly monitor blood pressure and treat hypertension aggressively.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not shake the vial or syringe, as this may denature the glycoprotein and render it inactive.
- Always use a new, sterile needle and syringe for each injection.
- Inform your doctor immediately if you experience any signs of blood clots (e.g., sudden pain, swelling, numbness in a limb) or severe allergic reactions.
- Ensure adequate iron intake as prescribed by your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Eporen may cause dizziness or seizures (rarely). Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet to support erythropoiesis.
- Regularly monitor your blood pressure at home as directed by your doctor.
- Avoid smoking, as it can exacerbate cardiovascular risks.
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