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References

  1. Gilbertson, DT, Monda KL, Bradbury BD, Collins AJ. RBC transfusions among hemodialysis patients (1999-2010): influence of hemoglobin concentrations below 10 g/dL. Am J Kidney Dis. 2013;62(5):919-928.
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Annual transfusion rate is 4 times higher in patients with Hb < 10 g/dL vs ≥ 10 g/dL1

Adapted from Gilbertson DT, et al. Am J Kidney Dis. 2013. Retrospective cohort study of prevalent Medicare patients on hemodialysis as of January 1, 1999, to January 1, 2010. Patients were categorized based on mean 3-month Hb levels between April and June of each year. The primary outcome was inpatient or outpatient transfusion during the 6-month follow-up period of each cohort year. Transfusions in patients with Hb < 10 g/dL were compared with transfusions in patients with Hb ≥ 10 g/dL. *Data were adjusted for age, sex, race, end-stage renal disease attribution, dialysis duration, ESA dose, antibiotic use, iron use, hospitalization days, comorbid conditions, previous transfusion, and facility ownership. N ranged from 118,338 in 1999 to 188,450 in 2010.
Risk for transfusion increased when Hb was < 10 g/dL and remained even after adjusting for clinical factors such as age, race, and comorbidities.1

INDICATION AND LIMITATIONS OF USE

EPOGEN® is indicated for treatment of anemia due to CKD in patients on dialysis to decrease the need for RBC transfusion.

EPOGEN® has not been shown to improve quality of life, fatigue, or patient well-being.

EPOGEN® is not indicated for use as a substitute for RBC transfusions in patients who require immediate correction of anemia.

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