Darbepoetin alfa: View Uses, Side Effects and Medicines

Darbepoetin alfa

INFORMATION ABOUT DARBEPOETIN ALFA

Darbepoetin alfa Uses

Darbepoetin alfa is used in the treatment of anemia due to chronic kidney disease and anemia due to chemotherapy.

How Darbepoetin alfa works

Darbepoetin alfa is an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA). It works by stimulating the bone marrow (soft tissue inside the bones which produces red blood cells) to produce more red blood cells.

Common side effects of Darbepoetin alfa

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common

High blood pressure, Rash, Injection site pain, Breathlessness, Cough, Peripheral edema, Procedural hypotension (low blood pressure), Convulsion, Thromboembolism

CONTENT DETAILS

Last updated

28 Mar 2025 | 06:24 AM (UTC)

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Medicine brands for Darbepoetin alfa

Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd

7 variant(s)

Cresp Onco

₹5867 to ₹11990

Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd

2 variant(s)

Kabidarba

₹1489 to ₹2348

Fresenius Kabi India Pvt Ltd

Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Expert advice for Darbepoetin alfa

Darbepoetin alfa helps in the treatment of anemia that may have occurred due to chronic kidney disease or cancer chemotherapy.
It is given as a single injection under your skin.
Your doctor may get your blood tests done regularly to monitor the levels of hemoglobin, blood cells and electrolytes such as potassium in your blood.
Monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication. Inform your doctor if you notice symptoms of very high blood pressure such as severe headache, problems with your eyesight, nausea, vomiting or fits (seizures).
Stop taking Darbepoetin alfa and inform your doctor if you develop shortness of breath or skin rash.
Darbepoetin alfa helps in the treatment of anemia that may have occurred due to chronic kidney disease or cancer chemotherapy.
It is given as a single injection under your skin.
Your doctor may get your blood tests done regularly to monitor the levels of hemoglobin, blood cells and electrolytes such as potassium in your blood.
Monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication. Inform your doctor if you notice symptoms of very high blood pressure such as severe headache, problems with your eyesight, nausea, vomiting or fits (seizures).
Stop taking Darbepoetin alfa and inform your doctor if you develop shortness of breath or skin rash.

Frequently asked questions for Darbepoetin alfa

Q. How long does it take for Darbepoetin alfa to start working?

You will be able to notice an increase in the count of red blood cells (hemoglobin levels) in 2-6 weeks of starting Darbepoetin alfa. If you have any other concerns, consult your doctor.

Q. Is Darbepoetin alfa safe to use?

Darbepoetin alfa is a medicine that needs to be used with utmost care because it can lead to serious side effects and even death of the patient. It is important that you seek treatment from a doctor who is experienced in providing Darbepoetin alfa therapy. Follow all the directions strictly.

Q. Other than PRCA, can there be other reasons for not responding to Darbepoetin alfa?

You may not respond to Darbepoetin alfa if you have deficiencies of iron, folic acid or vitamin B12. It is important that you take measures to correct these deficiencies. Other reasons behind not responding to the treatment could be bleeding, infections, inflammation and bone marrow fibrosis. Therefore, consult our doctor regarding the same.

Q. Can Darbepoetin alfa be used in children?

Yes, Darbepoetin alfa is used to treat anemia due to chronic kidney disease in children who are above 1 year of age. The effectiveness of Darbepoetin alfa and side effects seen in children are similar to adults. However, consult your doctor if you are not sure.

Q. Can Darbepoetin alfa affect blood pressure?

Yes, Darbepoetin alfa can affect blood pressure. During initial therapy with Darbepoetin alfa, blood pressure should be monitored and those who have high blood pressure should take appropriate measures to control blood pressure. Your doctor may stop Darbepoetin alfa if the blood pressure remains uncontrolled.