Epoetin Alfa

• Flu-like syndrome e.g. fever, chills, headache, body aches
Usually occurs at the start of treatment. Maintain hydration – drink sufficient fluids – and take paracetamol if necessary.   
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Increased blood pressure
• Pain and redness at injection site
To reduce symptoms, alternate injection site and apply cold compress.

Inform your doctor is any of the following occurs:

• Fever of 38°C or higher
• Increased fatigue, weakness and pale skin colour
• Severe headache, giddiness, light-headedness
• Rapid heartbeat, sudden onset of chest pain or breathlessness
• Signs of blood clot over a vein or calf tenderness
• Seizures
• Allergic reaction e.g. rash, itch, swelling, dizziness, breathing difficulty

Epoetin alfa is an injection with various dosing schedules, that may be given via the intravenous or subcutaneous route. Follow the dosing schedule instructed by your doctor.

However, subcutaneous epoetin alfa should NOT be used to treat anemia due to chronic kidney disease.

Do not shake the syringe vigorously.

If you miss a dose of epoetin alfa, contact your doctor for further instructions on what to do.

If you overdose on this medication, inform your doctor immediately.

Be careful to hold the syringe securely. Do not point the needle at anyone when uncapped.

Dispose the needle in a hard puncture-proof container. Do not attempt to re-cap the needle after use. Do not throw the exposed needle directly into the dustbin or leave it lying about. ​