Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta (Injection)
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 28, 2021.
Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) increase the risk for death, serious adverse cardiovascular reactions, and stroke when administered to target a hemoglobin of greater than 11 g/dL. A hemoglobin target level or dosing strategy that does not increase these risks has not been identified. Use the lowest dose that reduces the need for RBC transfusions. Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta is not recommended for treatment of anemia due to cancer chemotherapy. ESAs may shorten overall survival and increase the risk of tumor progression or recurrence in patients with breast, non-small cell lung, head and neck, lymphoid, and cervical cancers .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Mircera
Available Dosage Forms:
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Hematopoietic
Pharmacologic Class: Erythropoietic
Uses for methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta
Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta injection is used to treat anemia in adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who may or may not be on dialysis or in children with CKD who are on dialysis. Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta is not used to treat anemia caused by cancer medicines.
Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta injection causes the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. If the body does not produce enough red blood cells, severe anemia can occur. This often occurs in people with chronic kidney failure whose kidneys are not working properly.
Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta injection in children 5 to 17 years of age when it is given through a needle placed into one of your child's veins. Safety and efficacy have not been established in children younger than 5 years of age or when it is given as a shot under the skin in children.
Geriatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta injection in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have kidney, liver, or heart problems, which may require caution or an adjustment in the dose in patients receiving methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta.
Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the poten..
