Neorecormon

What is it?

A preparation of recombinant human erythropoietin available as a solution in pre-prepared syringes in different strengths, all containing epoetin beta. Syringes contain: 500iu; 1000iu; 2000u; 3000iu; 4000u; 5000iu; 6000u; 10000iu; 20000iu and 60000iu. Also, available as a powder in vials with WFI in ampoules at 500iu strength and as pen injection devices containing 10000iu, 20000iu and 60000iu Also, NEORECORMON MULTIDOSE, available as a powder in vials with solvent in ampoules for reconstitution and injection containing 50000iu and 100000iu of epoetin beta.

Medical Uses

Treatment of anaemia in patients with kidney failure undergoing dialysis, prevention ad treatment of anaemia in adults undergoing platinum therapy for malignancy, treatment of anaemia in adults undergoing therapy for tumours, suffering from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, multiple myeloma and who Also, have erythropoetin deficiency. Prevention of anaemia in premature babies born before 34 weeks gestation (but not multi-dose pen).

Dosage

Adults and children, kidney failure, 3x20iu per kg of body weight each week by subcutaneous injection at first, or divided and given as a daily dose. Can be increased on monthly basis by increments of 20u per kg of body weight, 3 times each week, to a weekly maximum of 720u per kg of body weight. Maintenance, reduce dose by half at first and then adjust at 1 to 2 week intervals according to response. Doses can either be given once a week or divided and given 3 to 7 times each week - all by subcutaneous injection. For multidose regimen, consult manufacturer's literature. Premature babies, prevention of anaemia, 250u per kg of body weight 3 times each week by subcutaneous injection, starting on 3rd day after birth and continuing for 6 weeks. For malignancies, consult manufacturer's literature.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, disease of blood platelets, severe phenylketonuria (an inborn metabolic disorder-PKU), epilepsy, high blood pressure, chronic liver failure. Other causes of anaemia should be established and treated before therapy begins. Monitoring of haemoglobin, platelets, electrolytes and blood pressure is necessary during treatment.

Avoid Use

Children aged less than 3 years should not be treated with cartridges or multi-dose vials, due to benzyl alcohol content; high blood pressure which is not controlled.