Administration of Epoetin alfa. Case study of the anemic patient

Improving patient outcomes by achieving a stable Hct in the higher end of the target Hct range of 30% to 36% is the primary goal of anemia management and Epoetin alfa therapy. Recently, attention has been focused on the potential differences between subcutaneous (s.c.) and intravenous (i.v.) administration. Although some patients may require less Epoetin alfa when it is administered by the s.c. route, many patients require the same dose or more due to the significant heterogeneity in response. To ensure that therapeutic outcomes are maintained or improved, clinicians should evaluate both staff considerations and individual patient tolerance and response when determining the optimal route of administration.