Uses

Epoetin beta (Mircera) is an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent indicated for treating anemia associated with chronic kidney disease in adult dialysis and non-dialysis patients, and in pediatric patients (3 months to 17 years) converting from another ESA after hemoglobin stabilization.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in uncontrolled hypertension, pure red cell aplasia developing after treatment with any erythropoietin, and history of serious allergic reactions to epoetin beta. Not indicated for anemia due to cancer chemotherapy.

Side effects

Serious risks include increased mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, venous thromboembolism, and thrombosis of vascular access. Hypertension, pure red cell aplasia, and serious allergic reactions may also occur.

Warnings

ESAs increase the risk of death, MI, stroke, venous thromboembolism, and vascular access thrombosis. Target hemoglobin should not exceed 11 g/dL. Use the lowest effective dose. Monitor for pure red cell aplasia. Not recommended as a substitute for red blood cell transfusions.

How it works

Epoetin beta is a modified erythropoietin receptor activator with longer half-life than native erythropoietin, enabling less frequent dosing. It binds erythropoietin receptors on erythroid progenitor cells in bone marrow, stimulating proliferation and differentiation to increase red blood cell production.

Storage

Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C in the original carton to protect from light. Do not freeze or shake. May be stored at room temperature up to 25°C for a single period of up to 1 month.