Precautions and Warnings With Darbepoetin Alfa

Understanding precautions and warnings with darbepoetin alfa before starting treatment can help reduce risks. Darbepoetin alfa may accelerate the worsening of cancer and shorten survival (if hemoglobin levels become too high). It can also increase the risk of serious cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots. Do not take darbepoetin alfa if you have untreated high blood pressure or are allergic to the medicine.

 

Darbepoetin Alfa: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking
 darbepoetin alfa (Aranesp®) if you have:
 
o Sickle cell anemia
o Hemolytic anemia
o Porphyria
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
  • Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
  • Breastfeeding.
     
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Precautions and Warnings With Darbepoetin Alfa Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;