DRUG SUPPLIED DOSE COMMENTS
DARBEPOETIN (Paeds)
(Aranesp)

Mechanism of action:

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA); recombinant human erythropoietin.




Ref: 32, 39, 47



Last update: 2022-06-19		 Single use Pre-filled Syringes (PFS):

10 mcg

20 mcg

30 mcg

40 mcg

(other syringe sizes available but may not be stocked at BCCH).
 *restricted - for use by Nephrology only*

Anemia associated with chronic kidney disease:

Infants, Children and Adolescents: 0.2-0.45 mcg/kg/week initially SC/IV and adjust dose to achieve target Hgb level

*note: dose should be rounded to the nearest available syringe size

 1 mcg darbepoetin approximately equivalent to 200 units of EPO.

Dosing interval may range from every 1-4 weeks.

Do not shake. Shaking may denature proteins and render the product inactive.

Do not send by pneumatic tube system.

Syringes must be refrigerated.

Doses of 2.5, 5 or 7.5 microgram may be given using the 10 mcg syringe: consult nephrology team for guidance.

IV use restricted to hemodialysis patients.



Standard Prescription:

darbepoetin__mcg SC/IV__(frequency) (__mcg/kg/week)