[The use of recombinant erythropoietin with patients on programmed hemodialysis]

The authors analyze the 6-month experience with the use of recombinant erythropoietin drugs to correct anemia in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) on programmed hemodialysis. 7 patients received recormon, the mean dose was 26.0 +/- 6.0 Units/kg bw given subcutaneously thrice a week. 6 patients were given eprex, the mean dose was 34.6 +/- 4.8 Units/kg bw given intravenously three times a week. The control group was made up of 8 persons. The data obtained indicate that the use of recombinant erythropoietin in patients with CRF treated by programmed hemodialysis results in anemia elimination and appreciable improvement of the general health status, permitting blood transfusions to be avoided. Subcutaneous administration allows the use of the lower drug doses, being especially preferable in patients who are to undergo long treatment with maintenance doses.