Epiao Ingredients and Usage

The active ingredient is Epoetin Alfa, produced by recombinant DNA technology. The injection is administered subcutaneously or intravenously as directed by a healthcare professional, typically 1 to 3 times per week.

Epiao is clinically indicated for:

• Anemia associated with chronic kidney disease
• Anemia in chemotherapy-treated cancer patients
• Anemia in zidovudine-treated HIV-infected patients
• To reduce blood transfusions in scheduled surgery patients

How Does Epiao Work?

Epiao stimulates red blood cell production through erythropoiesis stimulation:

1. Erythropoietin Receptor Binding: Binds to erythropoietin receptors on bone marrow cells
2. Erythroid Progenitor Stimulation: Stimulates division and differentiation of erythroid progenitor cells
3. Hemoglobin Synthesis: Increases hemoglobin production and red blood cell count
4. Oxygen Delivery Improvement: Enhances tissue oxygen delivery

Epiao Side Effects and Warnings

Common side effects include hypertension, headache, arthralgia, nausea, and injection site reactions. Most side effects are manageable with proper monitoring.

Serious Considerations

1. Increased Mortality Risk: Higher risk of death, myocardial infarction, or stroke in CKD patients
2. Thromboembolic Events: Increased risk of thrombosis, including vascular access thrombosis
3. Hypertension: May cause or exacerbate hypertension – monitor blood pressure regularly
4. Pure Red Cell Aplasia: Can cause antibody-mediated pure red cell aplasia
5. Seizures: Increased risk of seizures, especially during the first 90 days of treatment

Epiao Storage Conditions

Epiao Injection requires strict storage conditions:

• Store at 2°C to 8°C in a refrigerator
• Do not freeze or shake
• Protect from light
• Keep in original carton until use
• Do not use after expiration date