The kidney produces a hormone called erythropoietin which stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. With chronic kidney disease, the kidney is unable to produce enough erythropoietin to maintain an adequate blood count. As a result, people with kidney disease are often anemic, resulting in decreased energy, feeling cold, a rapid heart beat or shortness of breath. (Read more @: http://www.kidney.org)
Procrit® is a drug which functions similarly to erythropoietin. It is given subcutaneously, meaning a small needle delivers the drug just below the skin surface. It is given every 2-4 weeks, depending on each individual’s needs. The blood count is monitored every month to make sure that the blood count is maintained adequately. The most frequent side effects include elevated blood pressure and mild pain at the site of injection. Blood pressure and vital signs are taken at every visit, to make sure it is controlled while on therapy. (Read more @: http://www.procrit.com/)
Frequently, iron is needed in order for the bone marrow to be able to make red blood cells. We monitor iron stores, and so it is not necessary to take iron unless we, or your physician, advise it.
If intravenous iron is needed, it will be administered in our clinic. We are currently using Venofer® as the intravenous iron. It is an intravenous drug given over 5 infusions for 1-2 months. The iron profile is monitored every three to make sure that the blood count is maintained adequately. The most frequent side effects are hypersensitivity reaction and hypotension. Blood pressure and vital signs are taken at every visit, to make sure it is controlled while on therapy. (Read more @: http://www.venofer.com/)