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ARANESP EFFECTIVE TREATMENT OF CHEMOTHERAPY-INDUCED ANEMIA

February 17, 2006

According to an article recently published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, administration of Aranesp (darbepoetin) every three weeks effectively manages anemia caused by chemotherapy in patients with cancer.

Anemia is a common adverse effect of some chemotherapy regimens. It is characterized by low levels of circulating red blood cells, which are responsible for delivering oxygen to tissues throughout the body. Common symptoms of anemia are severe fatigue, shortness of breath, diminished activity levels, and a reduced overall feeling of well-being.

Severe anemia often requires treatment with blood transfusions, which have associated risks of infection, rejection, and increased medical costs. Furthermore, severe anemia may cause a delay in cancer treatment, resulting in suboptimal chances of a cure or optimal long-term survival.