Epoetin

Generic Name

epoetin

Trade Name

Epogen

Indication

anemia

Action

stimulates erythropoesis

Therapeutic Class

antianemics

Pharmacologic Class

hormones

Nursing Considerations

contraindicated in albumin hypersensitivity

may cause seizures, CHF, MI, CVA, HTN

monitor blood pressure during therapy

monitor for signs of anemia

assess dialysis shunts

monitor bleeding times

initiate seizure precautions

do not shake vial

More information on Erythropoiesis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythropoiesis)