GENERIC NAME: DARBEPOETIN ALFA - INJECTABLE (DAR-boh-poh-EE-tin AL-fuh)

BRAND NAME(S): Aranesp

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: Darbepoetin alfa is used to treat low red blood cell counts (anemia) either in people with long-term kidney failure (chronic renal failure) or in people with certain types of cancer (non-myeloid) who are receiving chemotherapy. It works by stimulating the bone marrow to make more red blood cells.

HOW TO USE: Learn how to prepare and inject the drug and review the darbepoetin alfa Patient Information Booklet. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not shake the vial or syringe and do not mix this drug with IV solutions or other injectable drugs. Consult your pharmacist. Inject this medication into a vein (IV) or under the skin (SC) usually once weekly; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to therapy. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently, or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because doing so may increase your chance for serious side effects. It may take up to 4 weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, cough, or constipation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: pain/irritation/redness/bruising at the injection site, other pain (e.g., muscle, joint, back, stomach, or chest pain), unusual tiredness/weakness, swelling of the arms/legs. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, chills, sore throat, muscle aches), blurred vision, irregular heartbeat, severe chest pain, shortness of breath, pain in the legs or groin. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: seizures, one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.