What is Mircera?
Mircera contains epoetin beta along with methoxy polyethylene glycol. Methoxy and beta-epoetin glycols are methoxy polyethylene glycols, which are manufactured proteins typically produced by kidneys. It helps to make red blood cells. If your body is unable to create enough protein as a result of kidney disease, it can lead to anemia (a lack of red blood cells).
Mircera is used for treating anemia (lack of red blood cells) as well as to decrease the requirement to transfuse blood cells.
Mircera is a treatment for anemia that is caused by chronic renal disease in adult patients as well as in children aged 5 or older with hemolysis.
The medicine is not intended to treat anemia resulting from chemotherapy for cancer. Epoetin beta, as well as methoxy polyethylene glycol, can increase the growth of tumors or reduce survival in patients with specific types of cancer.
Mircera shouldn't be used in lieu of a blood transfusion in an emergency situation.
Warnings
It is not recommended to use a mircera injection in the case of uncontrolled hypertension or if you've ever had red cell aplasia.
Mircera is not a treatment for anemia caused by chemotherapy for cancer.
This medication can raise your chance of suffering severe and fatal side effects like stroke, heart attack, or a blood blockage. Call your doctor or seek medical assistance in an emergency when you experience symptoms like chest pain or breathing difficulties, sudden numbness or weakness in your leg or arm, confusion, or issues with your speech or balance.
Before you take this drug
It is not recommended to use Mircera in the event that you are sensitive to methoxy or epoetin beta polyethylene glycol. Also, if you are suffering from
- Hypertension is uncontrollable (high blood pressure);
- If you've ever experienced one of the forms of anemia known as pure red cell aplasia (PRCA),.
A doctor may perform a test to confirm that you don't have any issues that could hinder you from using Mircera.
For you to ensure that Mircera is not harmful to you, consult your doctor, whether you've ever:
- Heart condition heart disease, high blood pressure
- A seizure;
- Dialysis treatments;
Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
How to take Mircera?
Follow the exact instructions for using Mircera that were prescribed to you. It is generally prescribed at least every two weeks, or at least once per month. Be sure to follow the directions listed on the prescription label and go through all drug guides and instructions sheets. Sometimes, your doctor will alter your dosage.
Mircera can be injected beneath the skin or administered as an infusion into the vein. In the case of a young baby, it must be injected only into a vein. Your healthcare professional will provide the first dose and guide you on how to administer the medicine on your own.
Take note of and follow the instructions that are included in the Mircera. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor to clarify any directions.
Only inject at the time you're prepared to administer the injection. Avoid using it when the medication is changing color or contains particles. Contact your pharmacist to inquire about the latest medication.
Your blood pressure needs to be regularly checked. Also, you will require frequent health tests, and your next dosage could be delayed depending on the findings.
Contact your doctor if you are experiencing signs that indicate your body isn't responding in a way to mircera (pale skin or unusual fatigue, lack of motivation, nausea, falling asleep).
The doctor might suggest that you use an iron-based supplement. You should only take the form and quantity prescribed by your doctor.
If you require surgery, inform your doctor that you are currently using Mircera. There is a chance that you'll need medication to avoid blood clots for a short period of time following your procedure.
Storage of prefilled syringes is in the fridge. Avoid freezing and shaking. Store the medication in the original container until you are prepared to inject the medicine.
You can also keep the syringe that is prefilled at the temperature of a cool and dry room that is up to 25 °C (77 °F); however, you have to use the syringe within the next 30 days or toss it out. Be sure to protect it against the sun.
Each syringe filled with prefilled medicine is intended for use once only. It is best to dispose of it after an initial use, even if there's a little medicine in it.
Utilize a needle or syringe once only and put them into the puncture proof "sharps" container. Make sure you follow local or state regulations regarding proper disposal of the container, keeping pets and children out of its path.
Details on dosage
Normal Adult Dose to Treat Anemia in Chronic Renal Failure:
Patients NOT on Dialysis:
Not currently on erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs):
The first dose: 0.6 mg/kg, administered via intravenous (IV) under the skin (SC) each time for 2 weeks
Maintain the dose (when hemoglobin has stabilized). Dosage: Once per month by taking twice the two-week dose. Titrate when needed.
Conversion from Epoetin alfa (EA):
EA doses less than 8000 units/week, 60 mg every two weeks, or 120 mg per month
EA doses range from 8000 to 16,000 units per week. 100 mcg every 2 weeks or 200 mg monthly
EA dose of over 16,000 units/week: 180 mg every two weeks or 360 mg per month.
Conversion to Darbepoetin alfa
Darbepoetin alfa dosage less than 40 mcg/week: 60 mg every two weeks, or 120 mg per month.
Darbepoetin alfa dosage 40 to 80 mg a week: 100 mcg every 2 weeks or 200 mg monthly
Dosage of Darbepoetin Alfa is greater than 80 mcg/week, 180 mg every two weeks, or 360 mcg per month.
Comments:
The use of this drug is not suggested for anemia resulting from chemotherapy for cancer.
The use of this product is not suggested as a replacement for red blood cell (RBC) transfusions if immediate correction of anemia is necessary.
The effects of improvements in functional capacity or associated quality of life haven't been proven.
Initiate treatment when hemoglobin is below 10 g/dL. The increase in hemoglobin levels is most likely to require an RBC infusion. Moreover, decreasing RBC transfusion-related risks, which include immunization, is the goal.
If hemoglobin exceeds 10 g/dL, decrease or stop taking the dose immediately.
Use the lowest dosage in order to minimize the requirement for transfusions of red blood cells.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Contact your physician for advice when you have missed the dosage.
What happens if I overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency treatment or dial the poison help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Be sure to follow your physician's advice regarding the food you eat and beverages or activities.
Side effects of Mircera
Take immediate medical attention when you notice indications or warnings of an allergy reaction (mirrors or itching coughing, excessive sweating, breathing dizziness, swelling on your throat or face, and fainting) or a serious skin reaction (fever, a sore throat, burnt eyes, skin irritation, and purple or red skin with blisters as well as peeling).
This medication can raise the chance of developing severe or dangerous negative side effects. Call your doctor or emergency medical aid in the event of:
- Elevated blood pressure, severe headache, blurred vision, and tension in your neck and ears. Anxious, nosebleeds
- Indications and symptoms of heart failure: shortness of breath (even at a moderate level of exertion), swelling of the chest, rapid weight gain;
- Heart attack symptoms include chest tension or pain that spreads to your jaw or shoulder area, nausea, and sweating.
- Warning signs of stroke or blood clots, sudden weakening or numbness (especially on the opposite side of your body), and slurred or confused speech. Abrupt confusion, difficulties with balance or vision, and a pale or cold leg or arm.
Contact your physician at any time if you experience seizures (convulsions) or if you notice signs you might be experiencing an epileptic seizure. For example:
- Sudden mood changes;
- Unusual tiredness
- The sensitivity to light or sound;
- Trouble focusing.
Common mircera adverse effects could comprise:
- High blood pressure
- Headache;
- The vomiting, along with vomiting and
- Stuffy nose, sinus pain;
- Throat soreness.
This isn't an exhaustive list of possible side effects, and other side effects could occur. Seek medical advice regarding possible adverse reactions of treatments. It is possible to report any side effects to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drug
Other medications can interfere with epoetin beta and methoxypolethylene glycol. These include medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, as well as natural products. Inform your physician about the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medication you begin or stop taking.
