Podcast
Questions and Answers
What class does Epoetin Alfa belong to?
What class does Epoetin Alfa belong to?
- Erythropoietin/ Hematopoietic growth factor (correct)
- Analgesic
- Antibiotic
- Anticoagulant
What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of Epoetin Alfa?
What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of Epoetin Alfa?
Stimulates division of differential stem cells in bone marrow: increases synthesis of hemoglobin causing shift of reticulocytes into circulation.
What are some adverse effects of Epoetin Alfa?
What are some adverse effects of Epoetin Alfa?
- Hypertension
- Headache
- Edema
- Nausea/Vomiting
- All of the above (correct)
What therapy should be monitored for interactions with Epoetin Alfa?
What therapy should be monitored for interactions with Epoetin Alfa?
Patient teaching for Epoetin includes notifying HCP if signs of blood clot or decrease in ______ occurs.
Patient teaching for Epoetin includes notifying HCP if signs of blood clot or decrease in ______ occurs.
What should be monitored during the first 90 days of treatment with Epoetin Alfa?
What should be monitored during the first 90 days of treatment with Epoetin Alfa?
What is the therapeutic use of Epoetin Alfa?
What is the therapeutic use of Epoetin Alfa?
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Study Notes
Epoetin Alfa Overview
- Epoetin alfa is classified as an erythropoietin and a hematopoietic growth factor.
- Used primarily for the treatment of anemia.
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulates the division and differentiation of stem cells in the bone marrow.
- Increases hemoglobin synthesis and facilitates the release of reticulocytes into circulation.
Adverse Effects
- Common side effects include hypertension (HTN), headaches (HA), edema, and nausea/vomiting (N/V).
Interactions and Contraindications
- Contraindicated with androgen therapies, such as testosterone replacement, due to opposing effects.
- Caution advised with anticoagulation therapy, affecting blood thinning.
Patient Teaching
- Explain the need for concurrent iron therapy and caution against activities requiring alertness like driving.
- Instruct patients to notify healthcare providers if symptoms of blood clots, decreased mental alertness, leg pain, chest pain, or shortness of breath occur.
- Treatment efficacy takes several weeks; typically followed by monthly doses after initial effectiveness is reached.
Nursing Considerations
- Regularly monitor patients with dialysis shunts and observe for signs of anemia or seizures during the initial 90 days of treatment.
- Hemoglobin levels typically do not exceed 11-12 even during treatment.
- Address vitamin and iron deficiencies to enhance the drug's efficacy.
- Complete blood count (CBC) should indicate increases in reticulocytes, total red blood cells (TRBCs), white blood cells (WBC), and platelets, with potential decreases in bleeding time.
Therapeutic Uses
- Epoetin alfa is indicated for the management of anemia.
- Particularly useful in cases of chemotherapy-induced anemia and chronic renal failure.
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