Darbepoetin alfa in anemia of myelodysplastic syndromes: present and beyond

Anemia is the leading clinical manifestation in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), significantly altering quality of life. Darbepoetin alfa has recently been added to the armentarium of erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs) for the treatment of anemia in MDS.

We review here the efficacy and safety data on the use of darbepoetin alfa in the management of anemia in MDS patients. Published reports covering the period from 2005 till today were reviewed, as well as updated guidelines on the use of ESAs.

Darbepoetin alfa administered, during correction phase, once a week or at longer intervals, yielded erythroid response rates comparing favourably with those obtained with recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) in lower-risk MDS. During maintenance phase, intervals between injections can be further increased in many responders. Quality of life was consistently improved in responders and the drug was overall well tolerated.

Those results, together with recent studies showing improved long-term outcomes in responders, support the use of darbepoetin, among other ESAs, for the treatment of anemia of lower-risk MDS, as recommended by international guidelines.