Self-administration of epoetin beta by peritoneal dialysis patients

Recombinant human erythropoietin (epoetin) reverses the anemia of end stage renal disease. Benefits have been evaluated primarily in hemodialysis patients because of the ease of administration via existing intravenous access. Studies are under way to evaluate the feasibility of subcutaneous self-administration of epoetin in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients. Preliminary study results, using the maintenance of target hemoglobin levels to measure success and a case study demonstrate the practicality of subcutaneous self-administration of epoetin in CAPD patients.