Erythropoietin is a protein that stimulates bone marrow to produce red blood cells. Procrit, epoetin alfa, is a synthetic replica of this protein and is classed as an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent or ESA. These are given to patients diagnosed with anemia as a result of diseases like cancer or kidney failure. The purpose of Procrit therapy is to avoid the need for blood transfusions. Serious Procrit side effects have been identified spurring organizations like the Food and Drug Administration to educate the public.
Thromboembolism
In 2009 The Journal of the National Cancer Institute published a study that examined the incidence of venous thromboembolism and death in ESA-treated cancer patients. The study looked at 56,210 patients treated with chemotherapy from 1991 to 2002. Of these patients, 27 percent received ESA therapy; 14.3 percent developed venous thromboembolism. A thromboembolism is a clot that travels to another part of the body, such as the lung or the brain. Patients experiencing this dangerous adverse effect may be permanently disabled or may die.
In its 2008 Procrit Medication Guide, the FDA warns that use of Procrit to treat hemoglobin greater than 12 grams per deciliter puts a patient at risk for heart attack, stroke and congestive heart failure. If patients taking Procrit should experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, irregular heart beats or fainting they should seek medical care immediately.
Increased Tumor Growth
The FDA advises that cancer patients may experience accelerated tumor growth and have a greater risk of mortality while taking Procrit, especially if the medication is used to elevate a hemoglobin above 12 grams per deciliter.
Hypertension
Billie Ann Wilson, Ph.D., author of "Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010" reports that Procrit may cause elevated blood pressure. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension should not take Procrit. Headache is another common side effect of Procrit and patients should report this as it may be an indicator of hypertension.
Seizure
The potential for seizures exists while taking Procrit. Patients are advised not to drive or perform hazardous activities during the first 90 days of treatment.
References
- The Food and Drug Administration 2008 Procrit Medication Guide
- "Journal of the National Cancer Institute"; Patterns of Use and Risks Associated With Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents Among Medicare Patients With Cancer; Dawn L. Hershman et. al; December 2009
- "Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010"; Wilson, B. A., Shannon, T. M., & Shields, K. M.; 2010
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