Generic name: epoetin alfa [ e-POE-e-tin-AL-fa ]
Brand names: Epogen, Procrit, Retacrit
Dosage form: injectable solution (10,000 units/mL preservative-free; 10000 units/mL; 2000 units/mL preservative-free; 20000 units/mL; 3000 units/mL preservative-free; 40,000 units/mL preservative-free; 4000 units/mL preservative-free; epbx 10,000 units/mL; epbx 10,000 units/mL preservative-free; epbx 20,000 units/mL; epbx 2000 units/mL preservative-free; epbx 3000 units/mL preservative-free; epbx 40,000 units/mL preservative-free; epbx 4000 units/mL preservative-free)
Drug class:Recombinant human erythropoietins
What is epoetin alfa?
Epoetin alfa is a man-made form of a protein that helps your body produce red blood cells. This protein may be reduced when you have kidney failure or use certain medications. When fewer red blood cells are produced, you can develop a condition called anemia.
Epoetin alfa is used to treat anemia caused by chemotherapy in adults and children at least 5 years old.
Epoetin alfa is also used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease in adults and children at least 1 month old.
Epoetin alfa is also used to treat anemia in adults taking zidovudine to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).
Epoetin alfa is also used to reduce the need for red blood cell transfusions in adults having certain types of surgery.
Epoetin alfa may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
epoetin alfa can cause serious s...
