Procrit (Epoetin Alfa)

Procrit (Epoetin Alfa) is an injectable medication used to treat cancer patients who have chemotherapy-related anemia, anemic chronic kidney disease patients not on dialysis, anemic HIV patients who are undergoing zidovudine therapy, and anemic surgery patients (Procrit reduces the need for transfusions in patients undergoing elective, non-cardiac, nonvascular surgery who are at a significant risk for blood loss).

Why Prescribed

Procrit is prescribed for the treatment of anemia in chronic kidney disease patients not on dialysis, anemic cancer patients, anemic HIV patients, and anemic patients undergoing surgery. Procrit elevates and maintains red blood cell levels and decreases the need for transfusions.

FDA Approved Uses

Procrit was approved by the FDA in 1989 to stimulate the body to make red blood cells in patients with various forms of anemia.

Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with Procrit include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, edema (swelling) and shortness of breath, high blood pressure, headache, joint pain, tingling, and upper respiratory infection.

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Warnings and Alerts

In 2006, the FDA notified healthcare professionals of a newly published clinical study showing that patients treated with Procrit are at a significantly increased risk for serious and life threatening cardiovascular complications.  Procrit injections may sometimes cause or worsen high blood pressure, especially in patients with long-term kidney failure. This effect may be caused by the number of red blood cells increasing too quickly, usually within the first 3 months of starting treatment.

Procrit may also increase the risk of blood clots and seizures. Cases of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) and of severe anemia have been reported in patients treated with Procrit, predominantly in patients with chronic renal failure receiving Procrit by subcutaneous administration.

Drug Contraindications

Procrit is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension and patients who have a history of cardiovascular problems.

FAQ's

What should I tell my doctor before using Procrit?

Before being administered Procrit, tell your doctor if you have any blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia, white blood cell or platelet problems, or bone marrow problems), heart problems, high blood pressure, seizure disorders, kidney problems, blood vessel problems, allergies, bleeding/clotting problems, and certain vitamin deficiencies (folic acid, vitamin B12).

Have viruses been associated with taking Procrit?

Patients with long-term kidney failure may be at increased risk of seizures during the first 3 months of treatment with Procrit, possibly caused by the number of red blood cells increasing too quickly. Therefore, these patients should use caution and avoid activities such as driving or using machinery during this period. Drinking alcohol while on Procrit may also increase the risk of seizures.

Have seizures been reported from using Procrit?

Patients with long-term kidney failure may be at increased risk of seizures during the first 3 months of treatment with Procrit, possibly caused by the number of red blood cells increasing too quickly. Therefore, these patients should use caution and avoid activities such as driving or using machinery during this period. Drinking alcohol while on Procrit may also increase the risk of seizures.

Are there counterfeit products being manufactured under the name of Procrit?

FDA and Ortho Biotech Products alerted healthcare providers and consumers about the existence of three lots of counterfeit product labeled as Procrit (Epoetin Alfa):

P007645 - 40,000 units/mL, Expiration 10-2004
P004677 - 40,000 units/mL, Expiration 02-2004
P004839 - 40,000 units/mL, Expiration 02-2004

The counterfeit Procrit has been found to be contaminated with bacteria and therefore represents a significant potential hazard to consumers.

What should I do if I think I have been injured as a result of taking Procrit?

If you or a loved one has experienced any dangerous side effects or health problems from using Procrit, particularly high blood pressure and/or cardiovascular difficulties, you should contact your doctor immediately. You should also contact an experienced defective drug litigation attorney to discuss your options and to protect your legal rights.