Darbepoetin Alfa



Aranesp®







Darbepoetin Alfa

(dar be POE e tin AL fa)

U.S. Brand Names
Aranesp®
Canadian Brand Names
Aranesp®
Pharmacologic Category
Colony Stimulating Factor; Growth Factor; Recombinant Human Erythropoietin
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to darbepoetin alfa or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat a variety of anemias.
  • It may take 6 weeks to see the full effect.
How does it work?
  • Darbepoetin alpha stimulates bone marrow to produce red blood cells.
How is it best taken?
  • This medicine is given as a shot into the fatty part of the skin.
  • It may be given as a shot into a vein.
  • Wash hands before and after use.
  • Your healthcare provider may teach you how to give the shot.
  • Throw away needles in needle/sharp disposal box and return box to healthcare provider when full.
  • Iron supplements are often needed.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
  • Do not change dose or stop medicine. Talk with healthcare provider.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • If you have seizures, talk with healthcare provider.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Chronic renal failure patients:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Headache.
  • Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Muscle pain.
  • Swelling.
  • Cancer patients on chemotherapy:
  • Diarrhea.
  • Constipation. More liquids, regular exercise, or a fiber-containing diet may help. Talk with healthcare provider about a stool softener or laxative.
  • Feeling tired or weak.
  • Joint pain.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Check blood pressure and heart rate regularly.
  • Check blood work regularly. Talk with healthcare provider.
  • Take good care of your teeth. See a dentist regularly.
  • Follow up with healthcare provider.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Fast heartbeat.
  • Severe dizziness or passing out.
  • Seizures.
  • Severe headache.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store in a refrigerator. Do not freeze.
  • Do not shake.
  • Protect from light.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: