What is Epoetin Beta and Methoxy Polyethylene Glycol?
Epoetin beta and methoxy polyethylene glycol are a mixture of medicines that treat anemia (lack of red blood cells) and decrease the requirement for blood cell transfusions.Epoetin beta and methoxy polyethylene glycol are utilized to manage anemia that is caused by the chronic kidney condition in adults or in children who are at least 5 years old and being treated with dialysis.Methoxy polyethylene glycol is not used to treat anemia that results from cancer chemotherapy. Epoetin beta and methoxy glycol can increase the growth of tumors or shorten the time to cure for patients with certain kinds of cancer.Epoetin beta as well as methoxy polyethylene glycol are not recommended in lieu of an emergency blood transfusion.Epoetin beta and methoxy-polyethylene glycol could also be used for other purposes that are not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Epoetin Beta and Methoxy Polyethylene Glycol
See a doctor immediately when you are experiencing symptoms warning signs of an allergic reaction (hives or itching, sweating and wheezing or breathing difficulties, dizziness, swelling on your throat or face, and fainting) or severe skin reactions (fever and sore throat, burnt eyes, irritation, as well as a red or purple eruption with peeling and blisters).This medication can increase the risk of having serious or fatal adverse effects. Call your doctor or seek emergency medical attention in the event of:
- Elevated blood pressure, severe headache, blurred vision tension in your neck and the ears; stress; nosebleeds
- Signs of symptoms of heart failure signs of heart failure breathing problems (even when exerting only a little) swelling of the chest, rapid weight gain
- Heart attack symptoms: chest pressure or pain, pain that is spreading to your shoulder or jaw, nausea, sweating,
- Indications of the symptoms of a stroke or blood clot: sudden weakness or numbness (especially on the opposite side) and slurred speech. Rapid confusion, issues with balance or vision, or balance issues, the appearance of a cold or pale leg or arm
Make sure to contact your doctor at the earliest opportunity if you are experiencing seizures (convulsions) or other indications that suggest you might be experiencing seizures, such as:
- Sudden mood changes;
- Unusual fatigue;
- The sensitivity to light, noise,
- Difficulty in concentrating.
Common adverse effects of epoetin beta and methoxy polyethylene glycol could be:
- Diarrhea;
- Stuffy nose, sinus pain,
- Sore throat.
This isn't a complete list of all the side effects. Others could happen. Contact your physician to seek medical advice on adverse effects. Please call the FDA's Adverse Reaction Hotline on 1800 FDA-1088 should any adverse reactions arise.
Similar or related drugs
ferrous sulfate, FeroSul, Procrit, Aranesp, and Retacrit
Cautions
It is not recommended to use methoxy and epoetin beta-glucose if you suffer from uncontrolled elevated blood pressure or if you've ever suffered from the pure form of red cell cancer.This medicine is not suited for treating anemia that is caused by chemotherapy for cancer.This medicine may increase the risk of having dangerous and fatal adverse side effects such as stroke, heart attack, or a blood blockage. Call your doctor or seek medical assistance in an emergency when you experience symptoms such as chest pain, breathing problems, sudden weakness or numbness, a pale or cold leg, arm, or leg, confusion, or issues with balance or speech.
Prior to using this drug
It is not recommended to use this medication if you have an allergy to methoxy or epoetin beta polyethylene glycol, or if you suffer from:
- Hypertension that is not controlled (high blood pressure)
- If you've had anemia of a kind known as pureed red cell aplasia (PRCA),
The doctor will conduct tests on your blood to ensure there are no conditions that hinder you from using methoxy and epoetin beta-glucose.
Speak to your doctor if you have ever suffered from:
- The heart condition High blood pressure
- A seizure;
- Dialysis treatment
Consult your physician if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
How do I take Epoetin Beta and Methoxy Polyethylene Glycol?
EPOETIN beta and methoxy polyethylene glycol are typically given every two weeks or every month. Follow all instructions on the label of your prescription and study all medication guides or instructions sheets. Your doctor may alter the dosage. Follow the medication exactly as prescribed.Epoetin beta and methoxy polyethylene glycol are injected under the skin or in veins. If used for children, the medication should be administered through the vein. The healthcare professional will administer your first dose and instruct you on how to utilize the medicine on your own.Take note of and follow the instructions for use that come along with your medicine. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor for clarification if you aren't sure about the instructions.
Make an injection only when you are ready to administer it. Avoid using any medicine that changes color or has particles. Consult your pharmacist about new medications.Your blood pressure needs to be monitored regularly. It is also necessary to undergo regular medical tests. Your next dose could be delayed, depending on the results.Consult your physician if you notice that your body isn't responding to this medication (pale skin or unusual fatigue, loss of energy, fainting, dizziness).Your doctor might suggest that you take a supplement with iron. Only take the type and quantity prescribed by your doctor.If you require surgery, inform your doctor that you are currently using methoxy and epoetin beta-glucose. It is possible that you will require medicine to avoid blood clots for a short period of time following your procedure.Prefilled syringes can be stored inside the refrigerator. Do not shake or freeze. The medicine should be kept in the bottle until you're ready to inject it.You can also keep the syringe that is prefilled at the temperature of a cool, dry room, but you must utilize the syringe within 30 days or dispose of it. Keep it safe from the sun's rays.
Each syringe filled with prefilled medicine is intended for one usage only. Dispose of it after one use, regardless of whether there's still medicine in it.Make use of a needle and the syringe once only, and put them into the puncture-proof "sharps" container. Make sure you follow local or state laws regarding how to dispose of the container. Keep it out of the reach of pets and children.
Info on dosage
Normal Adult Dose of Anemia to Chronic Renal Insufficiency
Patients NOT on Dialysis:
Not currently on erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs):
The dose to start: 0.6 mcg/kg, intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously (SC) each time for 2 weeks
Maintain the dose (when hemoglobin levels are stable). Once a month, administer by taking twice a 2 week dose; adjust as required.
Conversion from Epoetin Alfa (EA):
EA doses less than 8000 units/week: 60 mg every 2 weeks, or 120 mg per month
EA doses ranging from 8000 to 16,000 units/week: 100 mg once every two weeks, or 200 mg per month
EA doses of over 16,000 units/week: 180 mg every 2 weeks, or 360 mg monthly
Conversion from Darbepoetin alfa:
Darbepoetin Alfa dose below 40 mcg/week: 60 mg every 2 weeks, or 120 mg per month
Darbepoetin alfa dosage: 40–80 mg/week 100 mg every two weeks, or 200 mg per month
Darbepoetin Alfa dosage over 80 mg/week, 180 mg every two weeks, or 360 mg monthly
Comments:
The use of this drug is not advised for anemia caused by cancer chemotherapy.
The use of this product is not suggested as a replacement for red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in situations where urgent correction of anemia is needed.
The effects of improvements in symptoms, functional capacity, and quality of life haven't been proven.
Initiate therapy if hemoglobin is less than 10 g/dL. This rate of decline in hemoglobin will likely require an RBC infusion. Moreover, the reduction of RBC transfusion-related risks, which include immunization.
If hemoglobin exceeds 10 g/dL, reduce or interrupt the dose.
Use the lowest dose to minimize the requirement for red blood cell transfusions.
Use: Anemia due to chronic kidney disease
What happens if I miss the dose?
Contact your doctor for advice in case you missed a dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the poison help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Avoid this
Follow the instructions of your physician regarding any dietary restrictions on drinks, food, or any activity.
Interaction with other drug
Other medications can affect methoxy and epoetin beta glycol, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and products made from herbs. Discuss with your doctor all the medicines you are currently taking and any medication you begin or stop taking.
