Eprex Injection

Eprex by Jannsen is a synthetic erythropoietin used to replace the erythropoietin that is lacking in people who cannot produce enough, usually due to kidneys not functioning properly. Epoetin alfa is used to treat anemia in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), whether or not they are on dialysis.

Erythropoietin is produced naturally in the body, mostly by the kidneys. It gives bone marrow the signal to produce red blood cells (RBCs), which carry oxygen in the blood. Epoetin alfa works by causing increased red blood cell production by the body. If the body does not produce enough erythropoietin, severe anemia (lack of oxygen reaching the different parts of the body) can occur. It is available in 8 dosages that is 1000 IU, 2000 IU, 3000 IU, 4000 IU, 6000 IU, 8000 IU, 10000 IU & 40000 IU

• clotting of the vascular access site (for people on hemodialysis)
• dehydration
• diarrhea
• edema (swelling of the face, fingers, ankles, feet, or lower legs)
• headache
• increased or decreased blood pressure, dizziness, or feeling faint
• muscle aches and pain
• nausea
• signs of infection (cough, fever or chills, severe diarrhea, shortness of breath, prolonged dizziness, headache, sore throat, stiff neck, weight loss, or listlessness)

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• chest pain
• seizures
• signs of allergic reaction (symptoms may include skin rash or hives, trouble breathing, sweating, abnormal heart rate, or decreased blood pressure)
• signs of blood clots (pain or swelling in the legs, worsening shortness of breath, coughing up blood)
• signs of stroke (confusion, severe headache, sudden weakness, dizziness, trouble speaking, or vision problems)