RETACRIT

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents(ESA) aremedicationswhich stimulate thebone marrowtomake red blood cells.They are used to treatanemiadue toend stage kidney disease,chemotherapy, major surgery, or certain treatments inHIV/AIDS.In these situations they decrease the need forblood transfusions.The different agents are more or less equivalent.They are given by injection. Common side effects may includejoint pain,rash,vomiting, andheadache.Serious side effects may includeheart attacks,stroke, increasedcancergrowth, orpure red cell aplasia.It is unclear if use is safe during pregnancy.They work similar to naturally occurringerythropoietin. They were first approved for medical use in the United States in 1989.It is on theWorld Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.Commercially available agents includeepoetin alfaanddarbepoetin alfa, andbiosimilars.Use among athletes is prohibited by theWorld Anti-Doping Agency.