Procrit Inj

Procrit Inj Warning

Discuss the risks and benefits of use for epoetin alfa with your doctor, as this medication may rarely cause very serious side effects, including blood clots. It will be very important to keep all laboratory test appointments, as your doctor will need to carefully check your red blood cell tests (hemoglobin). The lowest effective dose of this medication should be used. When used to treat anemia related to cancer, this medication should be stopped after completing a treatment course of chemotherapy as directed by your doctor.

Procrit Inj Side Effects

Headache, body aches, diarrhea, and irritation at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Epoetin alfa may sometimes cause or worsen high blood pressure, especially in patients with long-term kidney failure. This effect may be caused by the number of red blood cells increasing too quickly, usually within the first 3 months of starting treatment. If you have high blood pressure, it should be adequately controlled before beginning treatment with this medication. Your blood pressure should be checked frequently. Ask your doctor if you should learn how to monitor your own blood pressure. If high blood pressure develops or worsens, follow your doctor's instructions about diet changes and starting or adjusting your high blood pressure medication. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and further kidney problems. Keep all laboratory appointments to have your blood count (hemoglobin) tested regularly to reduce the chance of this side effect.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

• seizures
• confusion
• loss of consciousness