Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (blood booster)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Epoetin alfa is a man-made version of a natural hormone your kidneys produce called erythropoietin, which tells your body to make more red blood cells, the cells that carry oxygen around your body.
Binds to erythropoietin receptors on bone marrow progenitor cells, stimulating erythropoiesis and increasing red blood cell production to correct anaemia. Mimics endogenous erythropoietin activity, particularly beneficial when kidney disease impairs natural erythropoietin synthesis.
Low blood level (anaemia) caused by kidney disease, anaemia from cancer chemotherapy, anaemia related to HIV treatment, reducing the need for blood transfusion before major surgery
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your doctor or clinic as soon as possible to arrange the next injection. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
Only buy this drug from a reputable pharmacy or hospital, as it must be kept refrigerated, so never buy from roadside sellers or open markets where storage conditions are unknown. Your doctor must regularly check your blood level and blood pressure while you are on this drug, so do not skip clinic appointments. Do not share this medication with anyone else, even if they also have low blood level.
Iron supplements are often needed alongside this drug because your body uses more iron to make new red blood cells, so your doctor will likely prescribe iron tablets or injections. Blood pressure medications may need to be adjusted since this drug can raise your blood pressure. Cyclosporine (used after organ transplant) levels may be affected, so your doctor needs to monitor closely.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Epoetin with your other drugs?
Epoetin alfa should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor decides the benefit clearly outweighs the risk; always consult your doctor before using it.
Store in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze it; once frozen, throw it away. Do not leave it out in Nigerian heat or direct sunlight. If removed from the fridge, it can be kept at room temperature (up to 25°C) for a short period but must be used within a few days. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.