Epoetin Beta, Methoxy Peg
Uses
This medication is used to treat anemia (low red blood cell count) in people with long-term serious kidney disease (chronic kidney disease). It works by signaling the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta helps to reverse anemia. It also helps to reduce the need for blood transfusions. This medication is very similar to the natural substance in your body (erythropoietin) that prevents anemia.
Warning
Discuss the risks and benefits of methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta with your doctor, as this medication may rarely cause very serious (possibly fatal) side effects, including blood clots, heart attack, stroke, or heart failure. It is very important to keep all lab appointments since your doctor will need to carefully check your red blood cell count and hemoglobin level. The lowest effective dose of this medication should be used.
When used to treat anemia related to cancer, this medication may also increase the risk of death and/or cause the tumor to grow faster. This medication is not approved for the treatment of anemia related to cancer. Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medication, as well as other effective and possibly safer treatments for anemia related to cancer.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
For adults, inject this medication into a vein or under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once every 2 or 4 weeks. Hemodialysis patients should receive this medication by injection into a vein. For children, inject this medication only into a vein as directed by the doctor, usually once every 4 weeks. The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, lab tests, and response to treatment.
If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional and the product package. Do not shake the medication and do not mix it with other medications. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. If you are injecting this medication under the skin, change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin.
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Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, it may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.
Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.
It may take 2 to 6 weeks before your red blood cell count increases. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.
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