Procrit-Epoetin Alfa

Procrit (epoetina alfa) is a medication given to patients who are chemotherapy-induced anemia (low red blood cell count). An injection of Procrit stimulates the production of red blood cells. Is a clear liquid that can be provided through an intravenous infusion (IV) or as a shot. It is also known as that Epogen. Use during treatment for Breast Cancer: chemotherapy for breast cancer affects all rapidly dividing cells in your body, including bone marrow cells, producing red and white blood cells and platelets. If your CBC shows that the number of red blood cells is low, it might be anemic. An injection of Procrit can Boost your production of red blood cells and help you avoid the need for a blood transfusion. Blood and marrow is made, the soft, spongy tissue in the nucleus of the bones. Marrow cells are fast-dividing cells that are affected by chemotherapy. Fewer bone marrow cells means less blood cells. The CBC can reveal that red blood counts are low, and are anemic. Usually, the kidneys produce erythropoietin, a protein that stimulates the production of red blood cells. But during chemotherapy for breast cancer, kidneys cannot make enough erythropoietin. Procrit artificial replacement for erythropoietin, and the correct dose of this drug will increase production of your red blood cells.You can give Procrit shots three times weekly 150 units/kg (SC), or once weekly (40,000 units/kg SC). Breast cancer patients usually receive as an injection in Procrit arm or thigh.Procrit is a very safe drug, and most patients do not experience side effects. Some patients may develop a fever. You have less than 10% chance of having these reactions: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fluid retention (edema) fatigueCall your doctor if you have these symptoms: allergic reaction (hives, breathing problems, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat) lack of chest pain breathing sudden feeling of pain (mostly asymmetric) numbness or weakness or swelling in your legs, feet, ankles or stunning high blood pressure (dizziness, weakness) possible risks of using Procrit: If are treated for metastatic breast cancer, there is a possibility of 1,1% Procrit could cause serious blood clots. It can reduce the chances of survival for patients with metastatic breast cancer, if you do not specify an overdose. Most deaths were noted when a broader than necessary injection of erythropoietin is the growth factor. you have high blood pressure (hypertension) that is not controlled by drugs are allergic to epoetina alfa (Procrit), or darbepoetin alfa (Aranesp) you are hypersensitive to human albuminRecommentations during treatment: before the first injection of Procrit, your doctor orders a CBC to achieve the levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, platelet count and iron or folate. As processing progresses, you will have more blood tests to check the effectiveness of Procrit, and to be sure you are getting the right dose.
If you are breast-feeding or pregnant, discuss with your doctor before taking Procrit. There have been enough studies to determine the effect of this drug on breast milk or the human fetus. if (zSbL

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