Aranesp

The proper way to use

Darbepoetin alfa is usually given by a health care professional. However, medicines given by injection are sometimes used at home. If you will be using darbepoetin alfa at home, your health care professional will teach you how the injections are to be given. Be sure you understand exactly how the medicine is to be injected.

Do not reuse needles and syringes. Put used needles and syringes in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through (puncture-resistant), or dispose of them as directed by your health care professional. Keep this container away from children and pets.

Do not shake the container of medicine before you use it, and protect it from bright light.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For injection dosage form:
  • For anemia from chronic kidney failure:
    • Adults—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. Darbepoetin alfa is injected into a vein or under the skin. How often you take this medicine must be determined by your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose to determine the best dose for you.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For anemia from cancer chemotherapy:
    • Adults—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. Darbepoetin alfa is injected into a vein or under the skin. How often you take this medicine must be determined by your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose to determine the best dose for you.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

Storage

Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.