Recombinant EPO has enjoyed tremendous on-label and off-label use. The effectiveness of the drug cannot be disputed, however it is only one of many "tools" in the blood management arsenal. If medical science has uncovered a downside to high doses these will be included in the
risk vs. benefit discussion as doctors decide when and how to use this tool. Possible risks do not preclude using any technique or drug. Aspirin has risks and benefits as does cell salvage yet both also offer real advantages when used properly.
Recombinant EPO has proven to be a real boon for patients. I predict its effective use will continue.
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Originally Posted by jimclh
These drugs can still be used safely and effectively. If one follows the thousands of cases where Procrit, Epogen and Aranesp have been used on Jehovah's Witnesses, you will find that there have been hardly any problems or side effects. The drug is designed to get the patient out of the "danger area" and not to bring the patient back to a normal Hg of 13 or 14. As usual there is an extreme reaction to a report of the misuse of this drug.
At a time when blood screening is a problem (just look at all the FDA recalls and fines given to the Red Cross) and there is an ongoing blood shortage, it seems to be a overreaction to a correctable problem.
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Mr. Jan B. Wade
Blood Management Consultant
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