Epoetin alfa-epbx (Retacrit)

General information

Class/mechanism: Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA), stimulates division and differentiation of erythroid precursors. A biosimilar of epoetin.

For conciseness and simplicity, HemOnc.org currently will focus on treatment regimens and not list information such as: renal/hepatic dose adjustments, metabolism (including CYP450), excretion, monitoring parameters (although this will be considered for checklists), or manufacturer. Instead, for the most current information, please refer to your preferred pharmacopeias such as Micromedex, Lexicomp, UpToDate (courtesy of Lexicomp), or the prescribing information.

History of changes in FDA indication

• 2018-05-15: FDA approved "for the treatment of anemia due to chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients on dialysis and not on dialysis, use of zidovudine in patients with HIV infection, and the effects of concomitant myelosuppressive chemotherapy. It is also approved for the reduction of allogeneic red blood cell transfusions in patients undergoing elective, noncardiac, nonvascular surgery."

Also known as

• Brand name: Retacrit