Darbepoetin Alfa

Darbepoetin alfa is a prescription medicine that is used for treating anemia caused by chronic kidney failure or chemotherapy. It is a man-made version of a human protein that stimulates red blood cell production by the bone marrow. Darbepoetin alfa is an injectable drug that is given just under the skin or by IV. Possible side effects of darbepoetin alfa include diarrhea, fatigue, and infection.

 

What Is Darbepoetin Alfa?

Darbepoetin alfa (Aranesp®) is a prescription medication approved to treat anemia caused by the following:
 
  • Chronic kidney failure (renal failure)
  • Chemotherapy in people with cancer.
     
(Click What Is Darbepoetin Alfa Used For? for more information on specific darbepoetin alfa uses, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Darbepoetin Alfa Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with darbepoetin alfa.
 However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of darbepoetin alfa include, but are not limited to:
 
(Click Side Effects of Darbepoetin Alfa to learn about specific darbepoetin alfa side effects, including some of the more serious side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;