Side Effects of Darbepoetin Alfa

Fatigue, muscle pain, and infection are some of the most commonly reported side effects of darbepoetin alfa. Although darbepoetin alfa side effects are generally minor and don't require treatment in most cases, you should seek medical attention immediately if you experience a heart attack or stroke, high or low blood pressure, seizures, or any signs of an allergic reaction.

 

Darbepoetin Alfa Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with darbepoetin alfa (Aranesp®); however, not everyone who takes the medication 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.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with darbepoetin alfa. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of side effects with you.)
 

Serious Side Effects Seen With Darbepoetin Alfa

Some side effects of darbepoetin alfa, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider.
 These include, but are not limited to:
 
Serious darbepoetin alfa side effects seem to be more common if darbepoetin alfa therapy is too aggressive. The medication should be dosed using a specific target for hemoglobin levels (a measure of anemia). The target hemoglobin level is 12 g/dL, and the target should be achieved gradually. If a higher hemoglobin target is used (or if hemoglobin is raised too quickly), serious side effects are more likely.
 
(Side Effects of 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;