Epogen
Epogen (epoetin alfa) is a recombinant erythropoiesis-stimulating agent that helps the body produce more red blood cells. It is used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease, chemotherapy, or certain other conditions. This medication is given by injection and requires regular blood monitoring to ensure safe and effective use.
Epogen is an injectable medication that stimulates red blood cell production to treat anemia in patients with kidney disease or those undergoing chemotherapy.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203281
- Generic
- Epogen
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Epogen is used to treat anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (including those on dialysis), patients undergoing chemotherapy for non-myeloid cancers, and to reduce the need for blood transfusions in certain surgical settings. It may also be used for anemia associated with HIV therapy.
Epogen is a synthetic form of erythropoietin, a hormone naturally produced by the kidneys. It works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells, thereby increasing hemoglobin levels and improving oxygen delivery throughout the body.
Epogen requires subcutaneous or intravenous injection and regular blood tests to monitor hemoglobin levels. It may increase the risk of cardiovascular events, blood clots, and stroke when hemoglobin levels rise too high. The lowest effective dose should always be used. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, known hypersensitivity to the product, or pure red cell aplasia should not use this medication.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy