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Generic Version of Epogen: E: EPOETIN (eh-POH-ee-tin) ALFA
Epogen Manufacturer: AMGEN
Common Uses of Epogen:This medicine is a recombinant human erythropoietin used to treat anemia. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
How To Use Epogen:Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. IF YOU ARE USING THIS MEDICINE AT HOME, a healthcare professional will provide detailed instructions for its appropriate use. Ask them any questions that you may have about your medicine or giving injections. WHEN DRAWING UP A DOSE INTO A SYRINGE, be sure to follow the procedure demonstrated to you to prevent contamination of the vial, syringe, or medicine. Never touch the rubber stopper of the vial or the needle of the syringe with your fingers. ALWAYS CAREFULLY CHECK that you have drawn up the correct dose before administration. STORE THIS MEDICINE in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. DO NOT SHAKE the vial. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE if it is discolored or cloudy or if it contains particles. Discard any remaining medicine. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.
Epogen Cautions:IT MAY TAKE SEVERAL WEEKS for this medicine to work. Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your doctor. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are using this medicine. FOLLOW THE DIETARY PLAN provided by your doctor. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
Possible Side Effects of Epogen:SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include headache, nausea, diarrhea, fever, or cough. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience rapid heartbeat, irritation at the injection site, seizures, weight gain, or swelling of fingers, ankles, or legs. Rarely, this medicine can lose its effectiveness after a period of time, and a very serious anemia can result. Tell your doctor immediately if symptoms of anemia reoccur, such as increased fatigue/weakness, or pale skin color. IF YOU EXPERIENCE difficulty breathing; tightness of chest; swelling of eyelids, face, or lips; or if you develop a rash or hives, tell your doctor immediately. Do not take any more doses of this medicine unless your doctor tells you so. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.