What it means
An erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) used for anemiauh-NEE-mee-uhA lower than normal number of red blood cells or amount of hemoglobin in the blood.a- without, lacking-emia blood conditionFull entry from chronic kidney diseaseKRON-ik KID-nee dih-ZEEZKidney damage or reduced kidney function that lasts longer than three months.Full entry , from chemotherapy and from some HIV drugs, and to reduce transfusions around surgery. It is given SUBQ or IV. Raising the hemoglobin too high increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, blood clots and death, and it raises blood pressure.
For the nurse
Check the hemoglobin and blood pressure before each dose and hold it and call the provider if the hemoglobin is above the ordered target. Iron levels are checked, since the marrow needs iron to respond. Do not shake the vial.
At a glance
| Drug class | erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (hematopoietic growth factor) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Epogen, Procrit, Retacrit |
| Also written | Epogen, Procrit, Retacrit |
Related terms
hemoglobin
The iron-containing protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, and the blood test that measures it.
chronic kidney disease
Kidney damage or reduced kidney function that lasts longer than three months.
anemia
A lower than normal number of red blood cells or amount of hemoglobin in the blood.
red blood cell
A blood cell that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues; also called an erythrocyte.
ferrous sulfate
An iron salt taken by mouth to treat or prevent low iron in the body.