Cresp Darbepoetin ALFA Injection

What is this medication?

DARBEPOETIN ALFA (dar be POE e tin AL fa) treats low levels of red blood cells (anemia) caused by kidney disease or chemotherapy. It works by helping your body make more red blood cells, which reduces the need for blood transfusions.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aranesp

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Blood clots
• Cancer
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• On dialysis
• Seizures
• Stroke
• An unusual or allergic reaction to darbepoetin, latex, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected into a vein or under the skin. It is usually given by a care team in a hospital or clinic setting. It may also be given at home.

If you get this medication at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give it. Use exactly as directed. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be used in children as young as 1 month of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Epoetin alfa
• Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure as directed. Know what your blood pressure should be and when to contact your care team. Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.

You may need blood work while taking this medication.