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Erythropoietin

Systems	Haematopoietic System
Category	Hamatopoietic growth factor

Pharmacokinetics

Erythropoietin has a molecular weight of 36,000 . It is a glycoprotein in nature. It is given intravenously or subcutaneously. Its plasma half life is about 6-8 hrs. It acts on the early erythroid colony forming unit of bone marrow. It induces hemoglobin formation and erythroblast maturation and releases reticulocytes in circulation.Recombinant human erythropoietin is available now.

Indications

It is given to increase the reticulocyte formation. It is given in anemia of chronic renal failure, those related to non-myeloid malignant disease, HIV patients with zidovudine related anemia and to increase the yield of autologous blood .

Routes of Administration and Dosage

For injection dose : For severe anemia in Adults: The usual dose is 50 to 100 Units per kilogram (kg) of body weight three times a week, injected IV or subcutaneously. The dose is gradually decreased by 25 Units per kg of body weight every four weeks or more until the lowest effective dose is reached.Most patients who have low iron stores require concurrent iron therapy for optimal response.

Contra Indications

Erythropoietin is contraindicated in uncontrolled hypertension, hypersensitivity to mammalian cell products and hypersensitivity to human albumin.

Precautions

Those with history of thrombosis, heart disease or hypertension may have increased chances of adverse effects. In those with sickle cell anemia Erythropoietin is not effective. The chance of seizures may be increased in those with history of Seizures.

Interactions

Haematinics may enhance the effect of erythropoietin. The dose of Heparin should be increased in those undergoing dialysis.

Brand Names

Eprex(Ethnor), Hemax(Hindustan Antibiotics), Zyrop(Indon)