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Questions and Answers
What classification does Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit) belong to?
What classification does Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit) belong to?
- Analgesics
- Hematopoietic Drugs (correct)
- Antibiotics
- Antivirals
What are the uses of Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
What are the uses of Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
Elevates hematocrit of patients with anemia, chronic kidney failure, anemias related to malignancies and AIDS.
What is the usual route and dosage for Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
What is the usual route and dosage for Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
SQ 3-500 units/kg/dose 3 times a week until target Hct range of 30-33% is reached.
What are the desired effects of Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
What are the desired effects of Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
What are some side effects of Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
What are some side effects of Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
What are the nursing implications for administering Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
What are the nursing implications for administering Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
What should clients be taught about Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
What should clients be taught about Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)?
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Study Notes
Classification of Epoetin alfa
- Epoetin alfa, marketed as Epogen and Procrit, is classified as a hematopoietic drug.
Uses of Epoetin alfa
- Primarily used to elevate hematocrit levels in patients with anemia.
- Effective for individuals with chronic kidney failure.
- Beneficial for anemias associated with malignancies and AIDS.
Usual Dosage and Administration
- Administered subcutaneously (SQ) at a dosage of 3-500 units/kg per dose.
- Given three times a week until the target hematocrit (Hct) range of 30-33% is achieved.
Desired Effects
- Epoetin alfa is a glycoprotein that stimulates the production of red blood cells (RBCs).
- It is produced in the kidneys and promotes erythropoiesis by stimulating the bone marrow.
Side Effects
- Potential side effects include seizures, headaches, and hypertension.
- May cause iron deficiency and clotting issues, especially in arteriovenous (AV) fistula.
- Other reported effects include excessive sweating, bone pain, and arthralgias.
Nursing Implications
- Avoid shaking the solution as it can denature the glycoprotein, making it biologically inactive.
- Inspect the solution for particulate matter before use; do not administer if discolored or contains particles.
Client Teaching
- Increasing hematocrit levels can enhance the sense of well-being and overall quality of life.
- Important for patients to adhere to dietary and dialysis prescriptions.
- Compliance with antihypertensive medications and dietary restrictions is crucial.
- Advise against driving or engaging in hazardous activities during the first 90 days of treatment due to the risk of seizure activity.
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