by Yvonne Mcdonald

Created on: August 23, 2010

People with chronic kidney disease do not make enough of the hormone erythropoietin which helps the body produce red blood cells. Red blood cells job is to carry the oxygen through the body and that is what gives us energy. Anemia is the medical term used when there is a low number of red blood cells in the body. This is why people with anemia feel weak and tired most of the time.

Epogen is a medication that is frequently used to help increase the number of red blood cells in the body. It is used mainly in people with chronic kidney disease and for patients who are on dialysis. Epogenis a man made form of a protein of the hormone erythropoietin. Epogen works by stimulating the body to make red blood cells. It does this by signaling the bone marrow that more red blood cells are needed.

Doctors determine if Epogen is needed by performing a simple blood test called a hemoglobin/hematocrit test. This will measure how much oxygen is in the blood and the number of red blood cells there are in the bodies circulation. Many doctors like the hemoglobin to be between 11 and 12 g/dl. This level helps people to have more energy, a better appetite and sleep better. All of these things help the patient to live a more active life. Most patients notice an increase in energy with in 4 to 6 weeks of starting Epogen. Hemoglobin levels above 12 can lead to heart attack and strokes so blood levels should be monitored regularly.

The most common side effects reported when taking Epogen are high blood pressure and flu-like symptoms. These complaints are also common among patient with chronic kidney disease so may not be related to Epogen. This is for a doctor to determine so all symptoms need to be reported right away. Blood clots are also a risk while taking Epogen.

Epogen is a liquid that can only be given intravenously or subcutaneously. Patient or family teaching is important when this will be given at home and not in a health care setting.

The health benefits of Epogen not only include having more energy, a better appetite and better sleep patterns but also patients report that they feel stronger, feel warmer, can concentrate better, breathe better, get fewer headaches and enjoy a better sex life. All of these things help the patient to take better care of themselves and get more out of life.

Learn more about this author, Yvonne Mcdonald.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.