Procrit: Solution for injection

What is this medicine?

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

-cancer
-heart disease
-high blood pressure
-history of blood clots
-history of stroke
-low levels of folate, iron, or vitamin B12 in the blood
-seizures
-an unusual or allergic reaction to erythropoietin, albumin, benzyl alcohol, hamster proteins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

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This medicine is for injection into a vein or under the skin. It is usually given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

If you get this medicine at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What if I miss a dose?

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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

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Interactions have not been studied.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

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Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

This medicine may cause a decrease in vitamin B6. You should make sure that you get enough vitamin B6 while you are taking this medicine. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-seizures
-signs and symptoms of a blood clot such as breathing problems; changes in vision; chest pain; severe, sudden headache; pain, swelling, warmth in the leg; trouble speaking; sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg
-signs and symptoms of a stroke like changes in vision; confusion; trouble speaking or understanding; severe headaches; sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg; trouble walking; dizziness; loss of balance or coordination

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

-chills
-cough
-dizziness
-fever
-headaches
-joint pain
-muscle cramps
-muscle pain
-nausea, vomiting
-pain, redness, or irritation at site where injected