Darbepoetin

Darbepoetin: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Stimulates erythrocytes division and differentiation.
• Darbepoetin is a human erythropoietin derivative with a prolonged half-life.
• It may be less prone to produce anti-EPO antibodies than other rhEPO.

Uses of Darbepoetin

• Treatment of anemia associated with chronic renal failure and cats with FeLV-associated anemia.
• Monitoring and/or supplementation of iron may be necessary, especially if the response to treatment is poor.
• It is also used to treat anemic human patients with cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.

Dose of Darbepoetin in Dogs and Cats

Dogs, Cats:

• For stimulating erythropoiesis (induction dose):
  0.25–1 μg (micrograms)/kg s.c. weekly until PCV is normal, then increase the dose interval for maintenance.
• Some authors recommend starting at the 1 μg/kg dose for improved efficacy.

Side Effects of Darbepoetin in Dogs and Cats

• Local and systemic allergic reactions.
• Pure red cell aplasia due to the production of cross-reacting anti-EPO antibodies.
• Seizures and hypertension have also been reported.

Contraindications of Darbepoetin in Dogs and Cats

• Conditions where high serum concentrations of erythropoietin already exist (e.g. hemolytic anemia, anemia due to blood loss),
• Where anemia is due to iron deficiency.
• where uncontrolled systemic hypertension is present.