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Only Available By Prescription
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Epogen (Epoetin Alfa) is a synthetic form of erythropoietin, a glycoprotein hormone naturally produced by the kidneys that is essential for red blood cell production. This medication is primarily used to treat anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, chemotherapy-induced anemia in cancer patients, and anemia due to zidovudine therapy in HIV-infected patients. It works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells, thus increasing oxygen transport throughout the body and improving symptoms of anemia such as fatigue and weakness.
Epogen is available as an injectable solution and is administered under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It is vital for patients receiving Epogen to have regular monitoring of their blood counts and iron levels to ensure the most effective and safe use of the drug. Before you buy Epogen, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and affordability.
| Fact Table | |
|---|---|
| Formula | C809H1299N229O240S5 |
| License | FDA approved |
| Bioavailability | 20% to 40% (subcutaneous) |
| Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
| Chemical Name | Epoetin Alfa |
| Elimination half-life | 4 to 13 hours (intravenous), 16 to 67 hours (subcutaneous) |
| Dosage (Strength) | 2000, 3000, 4000, 10000, or 40000 units/mL |
| Pregnancy | Consult a healthcare provider |
| Brands | Epogen, Procrit |
| Protein binding | Low |
| PubChem CID | 16132253 |
| MedlinePlus | a692034 |
| ChEBI | 50175 |
| ATC code | B03XA01 |
| DrugBank | DB00016 |
| KEGG | D04059 |
| Routes of administration | Intravenous, subcutaneous |
The dosage of Epogen injection based on the patient's medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. It is typically administered one to three times weekly. A healthcare provider should establish the precise dosing regimen.
Patients must have their hemoglobin levels checked regularly to avoid excessive increases which can lead to serious cardiovascular events.
Iron status should also be monitored, and supplementation may be necessary to ensure the effectiveness of Epogen.
Active Ingredient: Epoetin Alfa.
Epogen drug should be used with caution in patients with:
It is crucial to avoid shaking the vial of Epogen, as it may denature the protein, rendering it ineffective. The drug should be stored in the refrigerator and never frozen.
Epogen may interact with other medications, potentially impacting its effectiveness or exacerbating side effects. These include:
Patients should inform their healthcare providers about all medications they are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products.
While Epogen is effective in treating anemia, it can cause side effects in some patients. Common side effects include:
What is Epogen?
Epogen, also known as epoetin alfa, is a man-made form of a protein that helps your body produce red blood cells. This protein may be reduced when you have kidney failure or use certain medications.
What does Epogen do?
Epogen is used to treat anemia caused by chemotherapy or chronic kidney disease, anemia caused by taking zidovudine to treat HIV, or anemia due to other reasons. It helps the body create more red blood cells.
Is Epogen a high-risk medication?
Yes, Epogen can cause serious side effects, including heart attack, blood clots, or stroke. It may also speed up tumor growth or shorten remission or survival time in some people.
Does Epogen need to be refrigerated?
Yes, Epogen should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). It should not be frozen.
Does Epogen raise blood pressure?
Yes, Epogen may sometimes cause or worsen high blood pressure, especially in patients with long-term kidney failure.
How is Epogen administered?
Epogen is given as an injection under the skin or into a vein as directed by a doctor, usually 1 to 3 times a week.
How long does Epogen take to work?
It may take 2 to 6 weeks before your red blood cell count increases.
How to inject Epogen?
Epogen can be injected directly into a layer of fat under your skin. This is called a subcutaneous injection. When giving subcutaneous injections, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about changing the site for each injection.
When should Epogen be given?
Epogen is given 3 times a week for patients on dialysis. If prescribed by your doctor, your Epogen treatment will probably be on the same schedule as your dialysis.
Does Epogen affect your kidneys?
Yes, Epogen may sometimes cause or worsen high blood pressure, especially in patients with long-term kidney failure.
