Darbepoetin Alfa Injection

4. Therapeutic Uses

• Anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) for both dialysis and nondialysis patients

• Chemotherapy-induced anemia in adult cancer patients (excluding myeloid malignancies)

5. Safety Profile & Side Effects

Common adverse effects:

• High blood pressure (hypertension), injectionsite pain or swelling, headache, nausea, cough, swelling (edema), shortness of breath

Serious or rare risks:

• Thromboembolic events (e.g. blood clots), seizures, chest pain, dyspnea, irregular heartbeat, blurred vision, severe skin reactions, or anemia worsening due to pure red cell aplasia

Warnings:

• Avoid hemoglobin rise >2g/dL over 4weeks or sustained Hb >12g/dL

• Monitor blood pressure and hematological parameters regularly

6. Precautions

• Only for use under medical supervision; not for self-administration

• Contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension, known hypersensitivity to darbepoetin alfa, or history of pure red cell aplasia

• Use cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease, seizure history, or malignancy; dosing individualized based on Hb levels

• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Use only if clearly needed and under physician guidance

• Avoid alcohol during treatment due to potential increased seizure risk