Darberel 25 MCG Injection PFS

About

Darberel, containing darbepoetin alfa, is a modified recombinant human erythropoietin that stimulates erythropoiesis by the same mechanism as endogenous erythropoietin. It differs from epoetin alfa by having a longer half-life due to additional N-linked carbohydrate chains, allowing for less frequent dosing. Darbepoetin alfa binds to erythropoietin receptors on erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow, promoting their proliferation and differentiation into mature red blood cells. This action effectively increases hemoglobin levels and red blood cell mass, thereby improving oxygen-carrying capacity and alleviating symptoms of anemia. It is particularly beneficial for patients requiring long-term management of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease or chemotherapy, offering a more convenient dosing schedule.

Uses

• Treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
• Treatment of anemia in cancer patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy.
• Reduction of allogeneic red blood cell transfusions in patients undergoing surgery.
• Management of anemia in patients with certain myelodysplastic syndromes.

Directions For Use

Administer subcutaneously or intravenously as directed by a healthcare professional. Dosage and frequency are individualized based on hemoglobin levels and patient response.

Benefits

• Longer half-life, allowing less frequent dosing.
• Effectively increases red blood cell count.
• Elevates hemoglobin levels.
• Reduces the need for blood transfusions.
• Improves quality of life in anemic patients.
• Convenient for long-term anemia management.

Side Effects

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Thrombotic events (e.g., DVT, stroke, MI)
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Edema
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Injection site pain
• Rash
• Seizures
• Pure red cell aplasia (rare)
• Allergic reactions

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - No direct interaction with alcohol, but excessive alcohol use can exacerbate anemia or liver issues.
• Pregnancy - Use with caution during pregnancy; benefits must outweigh potential risks. Consult a physician.
• Breastfeeding - It is unknown if darbepoetin alfa is excreted in human milk. Use with caution.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with severe liver disease; monitor liver function.
• Kidney - Primarily used for anemia in CKD, but monitor kidney function and blood pressure closely.
• Lung - No specific contraindications related to lung conditions, but monitor for thrombotic events.

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