Information about Retacrit (Epoetin alfa or zeta)
Retacrit is a biosimilar of Epoetin alfa, a synthetic form of erythropoietin. Erythropoietin is a hormone that promotes the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. Retacrit is mainly used to treat anemia (low red blood cell count) caused by chronic kidney disease (CKD), chemotherapy, and other related conditions. It works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells, helping to alleviate symptoms of anemia.
Product Highlights
- It is used to treat anemia in patients with CKD, whether they are on dialysis or not.
- It is used to treat chemotherapy-induced anemia in cancer patients, helping to reduce the need for blood transfusions.
- In some cases, it may be used to treat anemia in patients receiving antiretroviral therapy for HIV.
- Sometimes prescribed to reduce the need for blood transfusions in patients undergoing certain types of surgery.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Retacrit stimulates the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells, helping to alleviate symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
- By improving red blood cell counts, it can reduce the need for blood transfusions in patients with anemia due to CKD or chemotherapy.
- By treating anemia, Retacrit can improve the overall well-being and energy levels of patients, especially those suffering from chronic kidney disease or cancer treatments.
- As a biosimilar to Epoetin alfa, Retacrit has been shown to be as effective and safe as the reference product in treating anemia.
Direction of Use
- Retacrit is typically administered subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously (through a vein) by a healthcare provider. It can also be self-administered at home with appropriate training.
- The dosage varies depending on the patient's condition, response to treatment, and whether the patient is on dialysis. The initial dose is usually based on the patient's weight, and adjustments are made over time to achieve the desired hemoglobin level.
- The injection may be administered once or multiple times per week, depending on the condition being treated.
- Patients receiving Retacrit should be regularly monitored for hemoglobin levels, iron levels, and any potential side effects to adjust treatment appropriately.
Safety Concerns
- Retacrit can increase blood pressure, so it is important for patients to be regularly monitored and treated for hypertension if necessary.
- In some cases, treatment with Retacrit can increase the risk of blood clots, especially in patients with certain conditions, such as those with CKD or undergoing surgery.
- While rare, allergic reactions to Retacrit or any of its components may occur. Symptoms can include rash, itching, or swelling, particularly at the injection site.
- In some high-risk patients, the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents like Retacrit may be associated with an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events, including stroke, heart attack, or even death.
- Because Retacrit stimulates red blood cell production, it may require concurrent iron supplementation to ensure effective red blood cell production and avoid iron deficiency.
Avoid Retacrit (Epoetin alfa or zeta) If
- You are allergic to Epoetin alfa, Epoetin zeta, or any of the other components in Retacrit.
- You have uncontrolled high blood pressure, as Retacrit can elevate blood pressure.
- You have a history of blood clots or are at high risk for clotting (e.g., patients with certain cancers or those undergoing surgery).
- You have pure red cell aplasia (a rare condition where the body stops producing red blood cells) after using an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent.
- You have chronic blood diseases, such as hemoglobinopathies, which may not respond well to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding unless prescribed by your healthcare provider, as safety in these cases may not be well-established.
This product requires special packaging to maintain its integrity during the shipping process. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICATION if the attached temperature indicator shows that the medication was exposed to temperatures below 2 degrees or above 8 degrees Celsius, and contact the pharmacy immediately.
