Questions and Answers
What is the therapeutic classification of Epoetin Alfa?
Which of the following is a pharmacological classification of Epoetin Alfa?
What are the therapeutic indications and uses for Epoetin Alfa?
Treatment of anemia associated with chronic renal failure, reduce transfusion need prior to elective surgery, HIV-infected patients anemic due to antiretroviral drugs, patients undergoing non-myeloid malignancies.
What is the mechanism of action of Epoetin Alfa?
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What are the primary routes of excretion for Epoetin Alfa?
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What are common adverse effects of Epoetin Alfa?
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Which of the following is a contraindication for using Epoetin Alfa?
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What is an important nursing consideration when administering Epoetin Alfa?
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Androgens may _____ the response of Epoetin Alfa.
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Match the nursing considerations with their descriptions:
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Study Notes
Epoetin Alfa Overview
- Epoetin Alfa is a hematopoietic growth factor, primarily used as a treatment for anemia.
Therapeutic Classification
- Functions as a drug for anemia.
Pharmacological Classification
- Classified as erythropoietin and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESA).
Therapeutic Indications and Uses
- Treats anemia linked to chronic renal failure.
- Reduces the requirement for transfusions in anemic patients prior to elective surgical procedures.
- Beneficial for HIV-infected patients experiencing anemia due to antiretroviral therapy.
- Supports patients undergoing non-myeloid malignancies to mitigate anemia caused by anti-neoplastic treatments.
- Maintains or elevates red blood cell (RBC) levels, minimizing transfusion needs.
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulates division and differentiation of stem cells in the bone marrow to generate erythrocytes.
- Promotes hemoglobin synthesis and enhances maturation of reticulocytes into the bloodstream.
Pharmacokinetics
- Metabolized in plasma.
- Primarily excreted via feces with a minor portion (10%) through renal pathways.
Adverse Effects
- Common side effects include hypertension (HTN), seizures, heart failure (HF), myocardial infarction (MI), and strokes.
- Associated with thromboembolic events, including deep vein thrombosis (DVTs) in patients not on anticoagulation therapy.
- Black box warning indicates an elevated risk of serious cardiovascular and thromboembolic complications.
Contraindications and Precautions
- Use caution in patients with myeloid malignancies, as the drug may exacerbate tumor growth.
- Contraindicated in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension and those hypersensitive to mammalian cell-derived products.
Drug Interactions
- Androgens may enhance the efficacy of Epoetin Alfa.
- Iron deficiency or vitamin depletion can reduce drug effectiveness; address these before therapy initiation.
- Epoetin can increase heparin anticoagulation requirements during hemodialysis.
Nursing Considerations and Patient Teaching
- Monitor lab tests for increases in white blood cell (WBC) count and platelets, and possible decreases in bleeding times.
- Watch for symptoms of anemia (fatigue, dyspnea, pallor) and monitor blood pressure pre- and during therapy.
- Educate patients about seizure precautions, advising against driving or activities that require alertness.
- Instruct patients to report signs of blood clots immediately.
- Emphasize the importance of adhering to dietary restrictions and medication regimens; suggest iron-rich, potassium-low foods.
- Inform that while Epoetin improves well-being, it does not cure the underlying condition.
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Description
Test your knowledge on Epoetin Alfa, its classifications, therapeutic indications, and uses with these flashcards. This quiz focuses on the key concepts from Chapter 39 related to hematopoietic agents and their application in treating anemia.
