Description and Brand Names

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

US Brand Name

  1. Epogen
  2. Procrit

Descriptions


Epoetin injection is a man-made version of human erythropoietin (EPO). EPO is produced naturally in the body, mostly by the kidneys. It stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. If the body does not produce enough EPO, severe anemia can occur. This often occurs in patients with chronic kidney disease whose kidneys are not working properly. Epoetin is used to treat severe anemia in patients on kidney dialysis or for those not on dialysis.

Epoetin may also be used to prevent or treat anemia that is caused by surgery or medicines (eg, zidovudine) that are used for other conditions, such as HIV or cancer.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

  • Solution