peptide hormones epo side effects FAQ

Epoetin alfa should be stored in the refrigerator, between 36 F and 46 F (2 C and 8 C). Keep the vials in the carton they come in to protect them from light. Do not freeze or shake the vials. Use single-use vials one time. Multiple-dose vials can be used for 21 days after you first pierce the stopper with a needle. Store these opened multiple-dose vials in the refrigerator.

Do not use epoetin alfa unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Use it as prescribed. Always use a new needle. Reuse of needles or syringes may increase your risk for infection. Do not share epoetin alfa with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them. Keep epoetin alfa out of the reach of children. Since this medicine should be kept in a refrigerator, take special precautions to keep it away from children who also use the refrigerator. Do not use epoetin alfa that has been frozen or shaken. This medicine is injected into a blood vessel or under the skin. Make sure that you or a caregiver understands how to properly prepare and use epoetin alfa. If you have any questions, talk to your health care provider. Multiple-dose epoetin alfa vials should not be used if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or for babies. These vials contain benzyl alcohol, which can harm babies. Talk to your health care provider to make sure you only get single-dose vials if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if the medicine is for a baby. When used to treat anemia related to cancer, this medication may also increase the risk of death or cause your tumor to grow faster. If you have concerns, talk to your health care provider.

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If you or someone else has used too much epoetin alfa, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

If you miss a dose, call your health care provider right away. They can tell you what to do.

There are no known interactions between epoetin alfa and foods or drinks. It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect epoetin alfa.

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if epoetin alfa is right for you. In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following. Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use epoetin alfa.

The most common side effects of epoetin alfa are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

Epoetin alfa may interact with certain medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Epoetin alfa is a hormone that tells your body to make more red blood cells.

While less common, the most serious side effects of epoetin alfa are described below, along with what to do if they happen. Severe Allergic Reactions. Epoetin alfa may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using epoetin alfa and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

Epoetin alfa is commonly used to treat the following conditions.