title: Recombinant human erythropoietin.
abstract: The characteristics and uses of epoetin alfa (recombinant human erythropoietin) are described, and the issues associated with its use are discussed. The use of epoetin alfa was recently approved by FDA for the treatment of anemia associated with end-stage renal disease. Epoetin alfa acts on burst-forming and colony-stimulating units in the blood to raise hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, thus correcting the patient's anemia. It has a relatively short half-life and may be given either i.v. or s.c. Doses vary and must be adjusted according to the individual patient response. Clinical trials have involved doses ranging from 15 to 500 units/kg three times per week. Treatment causes a dose-related rise in the hematocrit, with subsequent improvement in the quality of life of dialysis patients. Adverse effects include hypertension, iron deficiency, and thrombocytosis. Additional research indicates that epoetin alfa may be effective in the correction of other uncomplicated anemias, such as those related to antineoplastic therapy. Issues facing hospital pharmacists and other health-care professionals include cost (the estimated cost of therapy is $4000 to $8000 per patient per year), appropriate use and potential misuse, use and reimbursement for indications not included in FDA-approved labeling, and restriction to particular prescribers. Because epoetin alfa does not produce therapeutic effects for at least 7 to 14 days, it is an ideal agent for formulary restriction. Epoetin alfa, like other products of biotechnology, will have substantial impact, both therapeutic and economic, on the practice of pharmacy. Hospital pharmacists need to be aware of these new therapies so that they may act quickly and decisively when issues associated with their use arise.
authors.affiliation: Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195-5102.
authors.forename: E H
authors.initials: EH
authors.lastname: Jones
mesh_terms: D004921:Erythropoietin / Q000235:genetics* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D011994:Recombinant Proteins / Q000235:genetics / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology
chemical_list: D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D004921:Erythropoietin