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  • Title: Effects of darbepoetin alfa administered every two weeks on hemoglobin and quality of life of patients receiving chemotherapy.
    Author: Folloder J.
    Journal: Oncol Nurs Forum; 2005 Jan 19; 32(1):81-91. PubMed ID: 15660146.
    Abstract:
    PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To review the effects on hemoglobin and quality of life of an every-two-week (Q2W) regimen of the erythropoietic agent darbepoetin alfa for treating patients with chemotherapy-induced anemia. DATA SOURCES: Published articles and abstracts. DATA SYNTHESIS: Darbepoetin alfa Q2W increases hemoglobin in patients with chemotherapy-associated anemia and is well tolerated. Increased hemoglobin is associated with improvements in fatigue and energy level. A starting dose of darbepoetin alfa 3.0 mcg/kg (approximately 200 mcg for an average 70 kg patient) Q2W produces a similar level of response to recombinant human erythropoietin. CONCLUSIONS: Darbepoetin alfa effectively treats chemotherapy associated anemia with fewer clinic visits and fewer injections than are required with conventional erythropoietic therapy. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: The less-frequent dosing schedule of darbepoetin alfa can simplify anemia management for nurses and other clinic staff, and it offers patients greater freedom in their day-to-day activities, less dependence on caregivers, and less injection-associated discomfort.
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