What to Know: The ASCO and ASH Guideline on Epoetin and Darbepoetin Treatment for Adults With Cancer

2010

To help doctors give their patients the best possible care, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the American Society of Hematology (ASH) developed evidence-based recommendations about the use of epoetin (Epogen, Procrit) or darbepoetin (Aranesp) for chemotherapy-related anemia. In 2010, this guideline was updated to reflect results of recent clinical studies and a new analysis of combined data on the use of these drugs. It also summarizes the changes to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) approved prescribing recommendations. This guide for patients is based on the most recent ASCO and ASH recommendations.

Key Messages:

• Epoetin and darbepoetin are drugs that may help treat anemia caused by chemotherapy, lowering the chances of needing a blood transfusion.
• These drugs have serious risks, including blood clots and an increased risk of death.
• It's important that both you and your doctor carefully consider the possible benefits and the risks before using epoetin or darbepoetin to treat chemotherapy-related anemia.