Anemia Meds

Question 1

Anemia

Answer 1

decr in fxn of RBCs, hematocrit, or hemoglobin

causes impaired O2 delivery

Question 2

Erythropoietin alpha (Epogen)

Answer 2

IV/SQ
MOA: erythropoietin mimetic
treats anemia secondary to ESRD
A/E: HTN, fever, h/a, pruritus, rash, n/v, arthralgia, injection site rxn
NEED IRON and ability to manufacture bone marrow to work ==> often given with Iron supplements
Monitor Hgb

Question 3

Ferrous Sulfate (Iron)

Answer 3

MOA: mineral replacement, affects O2 carrying capacity in hemoglobin + myoglobin
A/E: DARK TARRY STOOL, abd pain, heartburn, n/v/d, constipation, flatulence, liquid preparation may stain teeth
Contraindications: GI diseases
Take btwn meals
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

Question 4

Folic Acid

Answer 4

MOA: water-soluble, B-complex vitamin, essential for erythropoiesis
Used to prevent birth defects in pregnancy
Also used for folic-acid def related anemia

Question 5

Vitamin B-12 (Cyanocobalamin)

Answer 5

MOA: helps w energy; necessary for cell reproduction
often given deep IM
treatment of pernicious anemia (impaired uptake of B12)
A/E: h/a, infection, asthenia, rhinitis, paresthesia, nausea
Most commonly given in geriatric pts