Darbesis 40
Form: Injection
Strength: 40mcg/0.4ml
Generic Name: Darbepoetin alfa
Company: Beacon Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 4545.0 (Injection)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Darbesis 40 is used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease in patients on dialysis or not on dialysis. Darbesis 40 is also used for anemia due to chemotherapy when at least two more months of treatment are planned.
Pharmacology
Darbesis 40 is a protein that helps in red blood cell production. Darbesis 40 is made using DNA technology in lab-grown cells. Darbesis 40 has more sugar chains than regular human erythropoietin, which helps Darbesis 40 last longer in the body.
Dosage & Administration
Adults with kidney disease: Darbesis 40 can be injected under the skin or into a vein. The dose starts at 0.45 µg/kg once a week. Patients not on dialysis may also take 0.75 µg/kg every two weeks or 1.5 µg/kg once a month. Once hemoglobin levels are stable, the dose may change.
Children with kidney disease: For children above 1 year, the starting dose is 0.45 µg/kg once a week or 0.75 µg/kg every two weeks. Younger children may need higher doses.
Anemia from chemotherapy: Darbesis 40 is injected under the skin. The usual dose is 500 µg every three weeks or 2.25 µg/kg once a week. If there is no improvement after nine weeks, further treatment may not be helpful.
Interaction
There are no known drug interactions as formal studies have not been conducted.
Contraindications
Darbesis 40 should not be used in people with uncontrolled high blood pressure, a history of severe allergic reactions to the drug, or a condition called Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA).
Side Effects
Possible side effects include high blood pressure, stroke, blood clots, seizures, allergic reactions, and skin rashes.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Darbesis 40 should be used with caution during pregnancy. Darbesis 40 is not known if Darbesis 40 passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before use.
Precautions & Warnings
Darbesis 40 should be used carefully in people with controlled high blood pressure, seizure disorders, or a history of Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA). If an allergic reaction is suspected, use should be stopped immediately.
Overdose Effects
Taking too much can cause high hemoglobin levels, which may require stopping or reducing the dose. In severe cases, removing some blood may be necessary.
Therapeutic Class
Darbesis 40 belongs to the group of medicines called Haematopoietic Agents, which help produce red blood cells.
Storage Conditions
Store at 2°C to 8°C. Keep away from light and do not freeze or shake. Keep in its original packaging until use.