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Methoxy Polyethylene Glycol-Epoetin Beta (Mircera): Patient Guide

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: July 26, 2026

Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta, also called Mircera, is a long-acting medicine that helps the body make more red blood cells. It is used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease or by chemotherapy in adults. It is prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional because the correct dose depends on blood-test results and other health factors.

Quick summary

This medicine can treat certain types of anemia, but it can also raise blood pressure and increase the risk of blood clots, heart problems, or stroke. Use it only as prescribed and keep all blood-test and monitoring appointments.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed July 26, 2026Editorial policy
BOXED WARNING

This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.

Key facts at a glance

ATC
B03XA03
RxNorm
729596
Generic
Methoxy Polyethylene Glycol-Epoetin Beta
Class
atc-b03
Brands
Mircera
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
—
Forms
prefilled syringe, solution
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.

Dosage and administration

adult (standard)injection
Usual dose
0.6 mcg weekly
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
once weekly
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)injection
Usual dose
0.8 mcg/kg weekly
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
once weekly
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
geriatric (standard)injection
Usual dose
0.6 mcg weekly
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
once weekly
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: No specific toxic single dose established for methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta; overdose may result in excessive erythrocytosis leading to increased blood viscosity and thrombotic events
Chronic overdose: Excessive elevation of hemoglobin/hematocrit from prolonged use above target levels
Immediate actions
Monitor vital signs, check hemoglobin/hematocrit levels, reduce or discontinue dose, consider phlebotomy for severe polycythemia
Antidote
No specific antidote exists(N/A - supportive care and phlebotomy are primary interventions)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

11 groups
✗

pregnancy

first trimester
unsafe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid if possible

Key Recommendations

avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks

Monitor

regular fetal monitoring

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

✗

pregnancy

second trimester
unsafe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid if possible

Key Recommendations

avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks

Monitor

regular fetal monitoring and maternal blood pressure

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

✗

pregnancy

third trimester
unsafe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid if possible

Key Recommendations

avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks

Monitor

regular fetal monitoring and maternal blood pressure

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

?

lactation

breastfeeding
unknown
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

not recommended

Key Recommendations

discontinue breastfeeding or avoid drug

Monitor

monitor infant for anemia

✗

pediatric_age

under 5 years
unsafe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

not established

Key Recommendations

safety and efficacy not established in children under 5 years

Monitor

hemoglobin and blood pressure monitoring

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

⚠

pediatric_age

5 to 18 years
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use with caution

Key Recommendations

use only if benefits outweigh risks

Monitor

regular hemoglobin and blood pressure monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✓

geriatric

over 65 years
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no specific adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

standard dosing with individual titration

Monitor

regular hemoglobin and blood pressure monitoring

✓

renal_impairment

mild to moderate
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

dose titration required

Key Recommendations

initiate at lower dose and titrate to target hemoglobin

Monitor

regular hemoglobin and blood pressure monitoring

✓

renal_impairment

severe
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

dose titration required

Key Recommendations

initiate at lower dose and titrate to target hemoglobin

Monitor

regular hemoglobin and blood pressure monitoring

⚠

hepatic_impairment

mild to moderate
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no specific adjustment recommended

Key Recommendations

use with caution and monitor response

Monitor

regular hemoglobin monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

hepatic_impairment

severe
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

use with caution

Key Recommendations

use only if benefits outweigh risks

Monitor

regular hemoglobin and liver function monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

Statistics and clinical data

prescribingFDA
2023

FDA approval year

Value:2007

Initial FDA approval for Mircera

drug_classWHO
2023

Drug class

Value:Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA)

ATC classification B03XA02

usageFDA
2023

Common uses

Value:Treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease

Main therapeutic indication

mechanismFDA
2023

Mechanism of action

Value:Stimulates erythropoiesis via erythropoietin receptor activation

Primary pharmacodynamic action

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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