Darbepoetin alfa (Systemic)

Brand Names : Aranesp

Proper Use of This Medicine

Darbepoetin alfa is usually given by a health care professional. However, medicines given by injection are sometimes used at home. If you will be using darbepoetin alfa at home, your health care professional will teach you how the injections are to be given. You will also have a chance to practice giving them. Be certain that you understand exactly how the medicine is to be injected. Do not reuse needles and syringes.

Put used needles and syringes in a puncture-resistant disposable container, or dispose of them as directed by your health care professional.

Dosing - The dose of darbepoetin alfa will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of darbepoetin alfa. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

• For injection dosage form
  • For anemia from chronic kidney failure:
    • Adults - Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 0.45 micrograms (mcg) per kilogram (kg) (0.2 mcg per pound) of body weight once a week, injected into a vein or under the skin. Your doctor may then gradually change the dose until the lowest effective dose is reached and some patients may be given this medication once every 2 weeks.
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For anemia from cancer chemotherapy:
    • Adults - Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 2.25 micrograms (mcg) per kilogram (kg) (0.2 mcg per pound) of body weight once a week, injected under the skin. Your doctor may then gradually change the dose until the lowest effective dose is reached.
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in the refrigerator. However, keep the medicine from freezing.
• Store away from light.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.