CHUGAI'S EPOGIN GETS ADDED INDICATION

Japanese drugmaker Chugai has announced that the recombinant human erythropoietin Epogin (epoetin beta-recombinant), an injectable medication currently marketed for renal anemia in adults, has obtained an additional effect-efficacy for anemia in premature infants.

Anemia is frequently seen in premature, low-birth-weight newborns, especially those weighing less than 1,500 grams, Chugai said. The disease can cause respiratory impairment and sustained tachycardia, and often requires a blood transfusion.

Controlled clinical trials have shown that Epogin can reduce the need for a blood transfusion by slowing progression of anemia in low-birth-weight newborns, the company reported.