Aranesp (Darbepoetin)

Description

Aranesp (darbepoetin alfa), an injectable medication, is administered for the treatment of anemia due to chronic kidney disease or chemotherapy that reduces bone marrow function and is planned for 2+ months after Aranesp initiation.

Aranesp intravenous (IV) is given only by a healthcare provider.

After receiving proper training, you or your caregiver may administer Aranesp at home via subcutaneous injection (underneath the skin).

Directions

Aranesp should be administered as your doctor has prescribed. Your doctor will decide on an appropriate treatment regimen for you.

You or your caregiver should receive training on the proper storage, preparation, administration, and disposal of Aranesp. Aranesp may be administered via a subcutaneous injection in the abdomen, front of the middle thighs, outer area of the upper arms, or upper outer region of the buttocks.

Never share Aranesp products, needles, or syringes with other people.

You may consult the medication guide that comes with your Aranesp prescription for further usage instructions.

Refer any questions or concerns to your doctor or pharmacist.

Ingredients

Darbepoetin alfa, an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA), is the active ingredient in Aranesp.

Polysorbate 80, sodium chloride, sodium phosphate dibasic anhydrous, and sodium phosphate monobasic monohydrate in Water for Injection, USP are the inactive ingredients included.

Contraindications

Aranesp should not be administered to patients who have any of the following:

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Development of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) after treatment with Aranesp or other erythropoietin protein drugs
• Allergic reactions to Aranesp that are serious

Cautions

• Aranesp is associated with the following FDA Boxed Warning:
• Chronic Kidney Disease:
• Controlled trials showed that patients were at greater risks for death, serious adverse cardiovascular reactions, and stroke when ESAs were given to target a hemoglobin level that is greater than 11 g/dL.
• No trials have identified a hemoglobin target level, Aranesp dose, or dosing strategy that does not increase these risks.
• The minimum Aranesp dose that effectively decreases the need for red blood cell (RBC) transfusions should be administered.
• Cancer:
• Clinical studies of patients with breast, non-small cell lung, head and neck, lymphoid, and cervical cancers showed an overall shortened survival and/or increased risk of tumor progression or recurrence by ESAs.
• The minimum Aranesp dose that effectively decreases the need for red blood cell (RBC) transfusions should be administered.
• ESAs should only be administered for anemia caused by chemotherapy that reduces bone marrow function.
• ESAs are not indicated for patients receiving chemotherapy that reduces bone marrow function when the anticipated outcome is cure.
• The medication should be discontinued after completion of the chemotherapy course.
• Before you start treatment with Aranesp, discuss the following with your doctor:
• All the medications you take, including prescription and nonprescription medications
• Your allergies
• Your existing health conditions
• Your previous medical history
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Aranesp is associated with the following warnings and precautions:
• Greater risks for death, stroke, and serious adverse cardiovascular reactions when Aranesp is administered to target a hemoglobin level of greater than 11 g/dL
• Increased death and/or tumor progression or recurrence risk in patients with cancer
• High blood pressure
• Seizures
• PRCA
• Allergic reactions that are serious
• Cutaneous reactions that are severe

Side Effects

Aranesp drug side effects include but are not limited to high blood pressure, shortness of breath, swelling, cough, low blood pressure during surgery, stomach pain, and blood clots in blood vessels.

Contact your doctor right away if you experience bothersome or persistent side effects.

Here, you can buy Aranesp with a valid prescription.

Reference

Aranesp. Thousand Oaks, CA: Amgen Inc.; 2024.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....