Epoetin beta is used to treat anaemia (low red blood cell count in the body) caused by kidney disease.
This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Epoetin beta injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein). It is delivered directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessel.
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition and your response to the medication.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Epoetin beta.
If you miss an appointment or miss an injection, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or injection should be given as soon as possible.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- uncontrolled high blood pressure
- heart attack or stroke that has occurred in the month before your treatment
- history of blood clots in the veins
as Epoetin beta may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- fits or seizures
- thrombocytosis (high platelet count in the blood)
- history of high blood pressure or heart disease
- cancer
- long-term liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Epoetin beta to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Routine tests (e.g. blood platelet count, electrolyte levels, blood iron levels) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
- Your blood pressure may rise to unsafe levels without you noticing it. Monitor your blood pressure regularly during treatment.
- Regular monitoring of signs and symptoms of fits or seizures may also be needed.
Epoetin beta may cause any of the following side effects: headache, nausea, and vomiting.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- chest pain, tightness or pressure, pain that may spread to the arms, jaw, neck, shoulder or back, shortness of breath, lightheadedness
- weakness or numbness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, vision problems, changes in balance or coordination
- rashes with peeling of the skin or blistering of the lips, mouth or eyes accompanied by fever
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C. Do not allow Epoetin beta to freeze. If frozen, this medicine will become ineffective and should not be used.
If needed, it may be stored at room temperature (below 25°C) for a single period of up to 3 days.
Keep the pre-filled syringes in their original package to protect them from light.
If you notice that the injection has changed colour or has become cloudy, do not use it. Throw it away and use a new injection.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.