Darbepoetin Alfa (Injection)

Darbepoetin Alfa (dar-be-POE-e-tin AL-fa)

Treats anemia that is caused by kidney failure.

Brand Name(s):

Aranesp
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to darbepoetin or if you have high blood pressure that is not well-controlled.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin or into a vein.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• You will be shown the body areas where this shot can be given. Use a different body area each time you give yourself a shot. Keep track of where you give each shot to make sure you rotate body areas.
• This medicine comes in single-use vials (bottles). Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
• Never shake the vial of darbepoetin. Shaking the liquid can cause the medicine to lose its strength.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• Call your doctor, pharmacist, or home health caregiver for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you store this medicine at home, keep it in the refrigerator, away from direct light. Do not freeze.
• Use each vial only one time and then throw it away.
• Keep all medicine away from children.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you have ever received epoetin (Epogen®, Procrit®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have blood disorders (such as porphyria, thalassemia, or sickle cell disease).
• Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Chest pain
• Fever, chills, sore throat, or other signs of infection
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Rapid weight gain
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
• Seizures
• Shortness of breath, cold sweat, bluish-colored skin

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
• Headache, dizziness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Pain where the shot or IV was given

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.