Pegylated Recombinant Human Erythropoietin (75mcg)

Pegylated Recombinant Human Erythropoietin (75mcg) — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is used to treat anaemia, a condition where the blood has fewer red blood cells than normal, most commonly linked to chronic kidney disease, including in patients on dialysis and those not yet on dialysis.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Anaemia associated with chronic kidney disease
• Anaemia in patients on dialysis or not yet requiring dialysis
• Sometimes used for anaemia caused by certain cancer treatments, as advised by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It is a man-made copy of erythropoietin, a hormone naturally made by the kidneys
• It signals the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells
• The pegylated form stays active in the body longer, allowing less frequent dosing

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller or general tonic
• It is not used for anaemia caused by iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency unless these are corrected first
• It is not used for immediate blood loss or emergencies requiring urgent blood transfusion
• It is not a treatment for kidney disease itself, only for the anaemia it causes

How to Use Pegylated Recombinant Human Erythropoietin (75mcg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• This medicine is given as an injection, usually under the skin or into a vein
• It is generally administered by a doctor or nurse at a clinic or dialysis centre
• The dose and frequency (commonly once every 2 to 4 weeks) will be decided by your doctor based on your blood test results
• Do not change the dose or frequency on your own
• Regular blood tests will be done to monitor your response and adjust the dose

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Contact your doctor or clinic as soon as possible to reschedule
• Do not try to self-administer an extra dose to make up for the missed one
• Keep a record of your injection dates to help avoid missed doses

STORAGE

• Store in a refrigerator between 2 to 8 degrees Celsius
• Do not freeze
• Keep the injection in its original carton, protected from light
• Do not shake the injection vigorously
• Keep out of reach of children
• Check the expiry date before use and discard if expired or discoloured

Pegylated Recombinant Human Erythropoietin (75mcg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• High blood pressure
• Joint or muscle pain
• Injection site reaction such as pain or redness
• Nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Swelling of hands, feet, or ankles
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever or chills
• Cough

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of a blood clot such as chest pain, breathlessness, or leg swelling and pain
• Severe allergic reaction with rash, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Sudden, severe headache or confusion, which may indicate a stroke or very high blood pressure
• Signs of pure red cell aplasia such as unusual tiredness or worsening anaemia despite treatment

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Pegylated Recombinant Human Erythropoietin (75mcg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India and should be used under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to erythropoietin or any component of the injection
• Have uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Have pure red cell aplasia caused by previous erythropoietin therapy

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of blood clots, stroke, or heart disease
• Have high blood pressure
• Have a history of seizures
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have liver disease or any chronic illness
• Are undergoing dialysis

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood pressure medicines, as dose adjustments may be needed
• Blood thinners or anticoagulants
• Iron supplements, which may be needed alongside this medicine
• Other medicines affecting bone marrow function

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can this medicine cure my kidney disease?

No, it only treats the anaemia caused by kidney disease and does not treat the underlying kidney condition.

How will I know if the medicine is working?

Your doctor will monitor your haemoglobin levels through regular blood tests to check your response.

Can I take iron supplements along with this medicine?

• Yes, many patients need iron supplements for the medicine to work well, but only take them if your doctor prescribes them.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.