Epoetin beta

Uncontrolled hypertension. When used for increasing the yield of autologous blood: MI or stroke in the month preceding the treatment, unstable angina pectoris; risk factors of deep venous thrombosis (e.g. history of venous thromboembolic disease).

Patient with epilepsy, refractory anaemia with excess blasts in transformation, thrombocytosis; history of hypertension or CV, cerebrovascular, or peripheral vascular disease; recent history of bleeding (with or without transfusions); cancer; severe Al overload due to treatment of renal failure; nephrosclerosis who have not initiated dialysis; chronic hepatic failure. Autologous blood donation patients weighing <50 kg. Not recommended for acute correction of severe anaemia or as a substitute for emergency transfusion. Rule out folic acid and vitamin B₁₂ deficiencies before treatment initiation. Pregnancy and lactation. Monitoring Parameters Monitor transferrin saturation, serum ferritin, Fe, Hb/haematocrit, platelet count, electrolytes, blood pressure. Assess for signs and symptoms of seizures.

Significant: New-onset or exacerbation of hypertension, hypertensive encephalopathy; seizures; pure red cell aplasia (PRCA); increased risk of tumour progression; increase in platelet counts. Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Leucopenia. Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting. Nervous system disorders: Headache. Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: URTI, pneumonia.
Potentially Fatal: CV events, including thromboembolic events and stroke (particularly when administered to a target Hb >12 g/dL); severe cutaneous adverse reactions (e.g. Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis); CV complications (due to excessive increase in packed cell volume) related to misuse.

Haematopoietic Agents