Epoetin
Epoetin
Epoetin (pronounced: eh-POE-eh-tin) is a type of biopharmaceutical used to treat anemia related to chronic kidney disease and chemotherapy. It is a synthetic form of erythropoietin, a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells.
Etymology
The term "Epoetin" is derived from the Greek words "epo" meaning "upon" and "etos" meaning "year". This refers to the drug's ability to stimulate the production of red blood cells, which are typically produced at a steady rate throughout the year.
Usage
Epoetin is used to treat anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease or those undergoing chemotherapy. It works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells, thereby increasing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Epoetin can cause side effects. These may include headache, joint pain, muscle aches, nausea, and vomiting. More serious side effects can include high blood pressure, blood clots, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Related Terms
- Anemia: A condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or of hemoglobin in the blood.
- Erythropoietin: A hormone produced by the kidneys that promotes the formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow.
- Biopharmaceutical: A type of drug produced using biotechnology.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epoetin
- Wikipedia's article - Epoetin
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