Aranesp Prefilled Syringe

Aranesp Prefilled Syringe contains darbepoetin alfa, a medicine used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease (CKD) or chemotherapy. It helps the body produce more red blood cells, improving oxygen delivery throughout the body. Aranesp reduces the need for blood transfusions and helps relieve symptoms like tiredness and shortness of breath linked to low red blood cell counts.

Benefits

• Helps increase red blood cell production in people with anemia
• Reduces the need for blood transfusions in CKD and chemotherapy patients
• Can improve energy levels and reduce fatigue caused by anemia
• Convenient pre-filled syringe allows for easy and accurate dosing
• May improve quality of life by addressing anemia symptoms effectively

Dosage

• Dosage depends on the cause of anemia, body weight, and individual response
• For CKD patients not on dialysis, starting dose is typically 0.45 mcg/kg once every 4 weeks
• For CKD patients on dialysis, starting dose is usually 0.45 mcg/kg once weekly or 0.75 mcg/kg every 2 weeks
• For chemotherapy-induced anemia, starting dose is 500 mcg every 3 weeks
• Dose adjustments are based on hemoglobin levels and response to treatment
• Always follow your doctor’s prescribed dose and never adjust it on your own

Warnings and Precautions

• May increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, or blood clots if used to raise hemoglobin too high
• Not recommended for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Should not be used to improve energy in people without anemia
• Regular blood tests are required to monitor hemoglobin levels and ensure proper dosing
• Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, seizures, or cancer
• Use with caution in patients with pure red cell aplasia (PRCA), a rare condition where the body stops making red blood cells

Usage Instructions

• Aranesp is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) or into a vein (intravenously), depending on the doctor’s advice
• The prefilled syringe is for single use only—discard after one dose
• Store in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F) and do not freeze
• Before injecting, allow the syringe to reach room temperature for about 30 minutes
• Do not shake the syringe as this may damage the medication
• If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to determine when to take the next dose

Storage Information

• Keep in original packaging to protect from light
• Store in the refrigerator and do not freeze
• Once removed from the fridge, Aranesp can stay at room temperature for up to 14 days, but must be used or discarded after that time
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Common Side Effects

• High blood pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling of arms, hands, legs, or feet
• Fatigue
• Injection site reactions like redness or pain
• Headache or dizziness
• Less common but serious side effects include blood clots, stroke, heart attack, or allergic reactions