Erythropoietic response to two epoetin alfa regimens in critically ill patients: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the erythropoietic responses and tolerability of two recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO) regimens.


METHODS
Prospective, open-label, multicenter study.


METHODS
Three multidisciplinary intensive care units in Québec, Canada.


METHODS
Sixty critically ill patients.


METHODS
The first 30 patients received EPO 40,000 U/week (group A); the next 30 received 40,000 U twice/week (group B).


RESULTS
Percent change from baseline in reticulocyte count and hemoglobin concentration were evaluated in both groups on study days 7 and 14. The numbers of adverse events were also compared between the two groups. No statistically significant differences were found in the results between the two groups.


CONCLUSIONS
Although the study had limitations, it suggested that EPO 40,000 U twice/week did not increase or sustain stimulation of the erythropoietic response compared with EPO 40,000 U/week in critically ill patients.
Darveau
Martin
M
Pharmacy Department, Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis, Lévis, Québec, Canada. martin_darveau@ssss.gouv.qc.ca
Notebaert
Eric
E
Denault
André Y
AY
Williamson
David R
DR
Albert
Martin
M
Bélisle
Sylvain
S
Lachaine
Jean
J
D000368:Aged; D016638:Critical Illness; D000068817:Epoetin Alfa; D004921:Erythropoietin / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006397:Hematinics / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006454:Hemoglobins / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D017701:Reticulocyte Count
D006397:Hematinics; D006454:Hemoglobins; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D004921:Erythropoietin; D000068817:Epoetin Alfa