| Sub-title | |
| Authors | J Farrugia E Farrugia |
| Abstract | Recombinant erthyropoietin (Epo) is the mainstay of treatment of renal anaemia in patients with chronic kidney disease. In April 2003, it became necessary to switch the route of administration of Epo from subcutanous (sc) to intravenous (iv). We audited this change to assess the effect on Epo requirements. Method: Our population consisted of 54 prevalent haemodialysis patients under the care of one consultant nephrologiSt Epo and iron doses were adjusted according to an established protocol designed to achieve haemoglobin (Hb) of 11g/dl in the majority of patients by setting intervention thresholds. Results: Complete data were available on 39 patients. 3x weekly sc 3x weekly iv Hb (g/dl) 11.09 11.19 Epo dose (iu/day) 587 760 Conclusions: In these unselected HD patients, a considerable and costly 29.5% increase in Epo dosing was required after switching the route of administration. |
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| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | 15 Issue 1-2/suppl. 2003 |
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| Key words | cost, haemodialysis, intravenous, subcutaneous, recombinant erythropoietin |