Aranesp, Procrit & Epogen side effects: FDA warning

Austin Kirk

By Austin Kirk
Posted March 29, 2007

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An FDA public health advisory has been issued regarding three drugs used for anemia treatment, Epogen, Procrit and Aranesp.  High doses of the drugs could increase the risk of serious injury or death.  Potential lawsuits are being reviewed for individuals who suffered injuries as a result of the anemia injections.

>>INFORMATION: Anemia drug side effects

Nearly one million Americans have received the potentially dangerous drugs, which are given as an injection by the physician.  The ESA injections are usually administered for anemia problems associated with kidney failure dialysis treatment or chemotherapy in cancer patients.  The medications which will carry the new warning include:

When the injections are given at high doses, the anemia therapy side effects have been found to increase the risk of blood clots, strokes, heart attacks and death.  They have also been linked to an increased rate of tumor growth when given to patients with certain types of cancer.  With the new warnings, physicians and patients will need to weigh the benefits of the anemia medications against the risks associated with a possible blood transfusion if the anemia gets too bad.  Lawsuits are being reviewed against the makers of these injections for failing to warn of these problems earlier.

>>INFORMATION:  Anemia injection lawsuits

The anemia treatment warning added by the FDA is a “black box warning”, which is the strongest possible label change which can be ordered by the federal agency.  Doctors are encouraged to use the lowest possible dose necessary to avoid the need for a blood transfusion as a result of anemia.  The FDA also advises doctors to closely monitor patients receiving anemia treatment and patients should check their blood pressure every day for any changes.

ANEMIA DRUG SIDE EFFECT LAWSUITS

Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. is reviewing potential claims for individuals who suffered injury or death as a result the anemia treatment side effects.  If you, a friend or family member have received an injection of Aranesp, Epogen or Procrit and suffered with blood clots, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, heart attack, stroke, rapid growth of a pre-existing tumor or death, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.

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