Darbepoetin Alfa

About darbepoetin alfa

Anaemia is caused by a reduction of haemoglobin found in red blood cells. Haemoglobin carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and also carries the waste product carbon dioxide back to the lungs. If someone suffers from anaemia then not enough oxygen will be carried around the body. This can cause tiredness, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness and headache. People with renal failure (kidney failure) are particularly prone to anaemia. Darbepoetin alfa works by encouraging the body to produce more red blood cells and is used for preventing and treating anaemia.

Your doctor may also recommend you take an iron supplement.

Before using darbepoetin alfa

Before using darbepoetin alfa make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver or blood pressure problems.
• If you suffer from epilepsy or circulation problems.
• If you suffer from sickle cell anaemia.
• If you have any problems with your heart, have recently suffered from a heart attack or stroke.
• If you currently have an infection.
• If you suffer from any blood disorders.
• If you have previously had a poor response to any drugs used to treat anaemia.
• If you have an allergy to latex (needle cover contains a derivative of latex).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use darbepoetin alfa

• Darbepoetin alfa should be used exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Darbepoetin alfa is usually administered by a doctor or nurse.
• If you are going to be administering the injection yourself, it is important that you receive training from your doctor, nurse or pharmacist beforehand.
• Darbepoetin alfa is administered as a single injection, either once a week, once every two weeks, once every three weeks or once every month, depending on the individual patient.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you miss a dose of darbepoetin alfa contact your doctor to discuss when you should inject the next dose.
• Keep your regular appointment with your doctor so your progress can be checked.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental and emergency treatment, tell your doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking Darbepoetin alfa.

Can darbepoetin alfa cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store darbepoetin alfa

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Keep the pre-filled syringe or pen in the original packaging in order to protect from light.
• Store in a refrigerator (2°C - 8°C). Do not freeze.
• Remove and leave at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes before injection.
• Once room temperature has been reached (25°C) the pre-filled syringe or pen must be used within 7 days or disposed of.

Important information about all medicines