What patients need to know about Epogen ?

Epogen is a drug used to treat anemia. As it is a powerful drug, it can also be harmful at times. Side effects of Epogen can occur because of certain factors such as misuse of the drug, over dosage, etc.

Before starting with Epogen, patients need to have a know how of the drug. Generally, we all know about the cautions and precautions, but let us ask you; is that enough? No! It is not. There are numerous other factors that play a significant role in either making the drug harmful or beneficial to your body.

An account of things that patients need to know is given below.

Patients on dialysis:

There are cases where patients are on dialysis. According to their health and their case, they are recommended what to do.

• If the patient is advised not to use of Epogen by himself, s/he then should keep a nurse or someone who is capable of doing so.
• If the patient is allowed to manage Epogen by him or herself, s/he should be then properly guided with the required dosage. They should also be guided how to prevent to interaction between dialysis and Epogen.

Signs and Symptoms:

If you are the patient, you should get all possible information related to the side effects and interactions of Epogen. Your doctor should also tell you about the symptoms and signs directing towards any possible side effects.
Patients on dialysis should understand the symptoms properly. They should also be guided accurately about the usage and misusage of the drug.

Renal functions:

Patients with improper renal functions should get medical assistance as how to use the medicine. They may require going through various tests that are essential. These tests determine whether the patient can use Epogen or not.

Contraindications for patients:

Epogen is not advisable to patients having the following:

• Unrestrained hypertension
• Having hypersensitivity to mammalian cell- derived products
• Having hypersensitivity to Albumin

Over Dosage:

The maximum amount of Epogen, which you can take in a single shot, has not been determined yet. However, adults have been recommended to 1500 units/kg IW for 3-4 weeks (without any direct toxic effects).

Adjustment of dosages:

The hematocrit should be accurately monitored. The dosages should be adjusted accordingly. If this does not happen and if there is any improperness in the dosage, it can lead you to polycythemia. If the dosage exceeds the recommended amount, then it may require to be held for sometime.

You should immediately opt for medial assistance if you think the dosage is not properly adjusted. You can feel the symptoms of over dosage like skin paling, shortness of breath, etc.