Procrit (darbepoetin alfa) has been used in the treatment of patients with chronic kidney failure and other types of cancer since its approval by the FDA in 1999. The drug is supposed to assist your body with the production of red blood cells, however results from a recent study done by the New England Journal of Medicine show that Procrit use has been linked to serious side effects such as blood clots, edema and seizures.
There are three major types of blood cells produced by the body's bone marrow; white blood cells (which fight infection), red blood cells (which carry oxygen to and remove waste products from organs and tissues) and platelets (which enable blood clotting). Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy hhavave an effect on these types of red blood cells, putting a person at risk for developing infections, anemia and blood disorders.
Procrit is a man-made erythropoiesis protein, similar to a natural substance in your body called erythropoietin, which is produced by the kidneys. Normally, Erythropoietin carries through the bloodstream to the bone marrow so that more red blood cells can be made. Procrit works by assisting with this process, enabling red blood cell production to remain at a healthy level. Procrit is is given via an injection in the arm, abdomen or thigh, or by infusion into a vein.
Additional Procrit Side Effects:
- increased blood pressure
- fever, body aches, flu symptoms
- edema (swelling of the feet or hands)
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
- pain or tenderness near injection site
- seizure (black-out or convulsions).
If you suspect that a loved one have experienced any side effects from the drug Procrit, please call us at 1.800.966.4999 or fill out the form to the right of the page for immediate attention to your case.
