PROCRITline, a patient assistance program provided by Ortho Biotech Products, L.P., offers the medications listed to the right at no cost to those who are eligible for the program. Patients may re-enroll in the program annually. Eligibility is based off of the following requirements:
Full Answer
Who should take Procrit®?
Who Should Take PROCRIT®? PROCRIT®(epoetin alfa) may be used to treat anemia if it is caused by: Chronic kidney disease (you may or may not be on dialysis). Chemotherapy that will be used for at least 2 months after starting PROCRIT®. A medicine called zidovudine (AZT) used to treat HIV infection.
What kind of chemotherapy is used to treat Procrit ®?
Chemotherapy that will be used for at least 2 months after starting PROCRIT ® . A medicine called zidovudine (AZT) used to treat HIV infection. If you have cancer and you will not be receiving chemotherapy that may cause anemia. If you have a cancer that has a high chance of being cured.
How does Procrit ® affect the body?
Your body may make antibodies to PROCRIT ®. These antibodies can block or lessen your body's ability to make red blood cells and cause you to have severe anemia. Call your healthcare provider if you have unusual tiredness, lack of energy, dizziness, or fainting.
Where can I get help with Procrit® out-of-pocket costs?
Janssen CarePath can provide information about resources that may be able to help with your out-of-pocket medication costs for PROCRIT ®. Call a Janssen CarePath Care Coordinator at 800-553-3851 for more information about affordability programs and independent foundations that may have funding available.
What is the cost of a PROCRIT shot?
Epogen and Procrit are specialty medications used to treat anemia caused by chronic kidney disease (CKD) or chemotherapy, but they don't come cheap. A 30-day supply of Procrit costs well over $2,000 and prices for Epogen average around $600 per month.
How long does it take PROCRIT to start working?
It usually takes 2 to 6 weeks before the number of red blood cells increases in your body. Individual results with PROCRIT® may vary. There are many different types of side effects that can occur with PROCRIT®.
Can PROCRIT be given at home?
Use these Instructions for Use if you or your caregiver has been trained to give PROCRIT injections at home. Do not give yourself the injection unless you have received training from your healthcare provider. If you are not sure about giving the injection or you have questions, ask your healthcare provider for help.
Who should not take PROCRIT?
Dangers of using PROCRIT® from multi–dose vials in newborns, infants, and pregnant or breastfeeding women. Do not use PROCRIT® from multi–dose vials in newborns, infants, pregnant or breastfeeding women because the PROCRIT® in these vials contains benzyl alcohol.
Does drinking water increase hemoglobin?
A steady intake of water increases hemoglobin indices, such as the MCH and MCHC, and decreases the MPV.
Does PROCRIT cause fatigue?
unusual tiredness; a seizure (convulsions); high blood sugar--increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor; low potassium--leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling; or.
How often should PROCRIT be given?
This medication is given as an injection under the skin or into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 3 times a week. Patients getting this medication before surgery may have a special dosing schedule.
Does PROCRIT increase hemoglobin?
PROCRIT stimulates your bone marrow to make more red blood cells. Having more red blood cells raises your hemoglobin level.
How effective is PROCRIT?
How effective is Procrit when treating anemia? Procrit is quite effective when treating anemia for people with CKD. One study found that Procrit can help raise hemoglobin levels after 4 weeks in people with CKD who aren't on dialysis.
Does Procrit help kidney function?
PROCRIT® (epoetin alfa) is used to treat a lower than normal number of red blood cells (anemia) caused by: Chronic kidney disease in patients on dialysis and not on dialysis.
Why do you get anemia?
A history of certain infections, blood diseases and autoimmune disorders increases your risk of anemia. Alcoholism, exposure to toxic chemicals and the use of some medications can affect red blood cell production and lead to anemia. Age. People over age 65 are at increased risk of anemia.
What drug builds red blood cells?
Epoetin injection is a man-made version of human erythropoietin (EPO). EPO is produced naturally in the body, mostly by the kidneys. It stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. If the body does not produce enough EPO, severe anemia can occur.
Does Procrit increase hemoglobin?
PROCRIT stimulates your bone marrow to make more red blood cells. Having more red blood cells raises your hemoglobin level.
How long does a Procrit shot last?
Your provider may also adjust your dose once every 4 weeks if needed. But as discussed, Procrit treats different types of anemia.
Does Procrit help kidney function?
PROCRIT® (epoetin alfa) is used to treat a lower than normal number of red blood cells (anemia) caused by: Chronic kidney disease in patients on dialysis and not on dialysis.
How often should Procrit be given?
This medication is given as an injection under the skin or into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 3 times a week. Patients getting this medication before surgery may have a special dosing schedule.
What is Procrit used for?
Procrit (epoetin alfa) is a member of the recombinant human erythropoietins drug class and is commonly used for Anemia, Anemia Associated with Chronic Renal Failure, Anemia Prior to Surgery, and others .
How much does a free drug card save?
The free Drugs.com Discount Card works like a coupon and can save you up to 80% or more off the cost of prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs and pet prescriptions.
When there is a range of pricing, should consumers expect to pay the lower price?
Important: When there is a range of pricing, consumers should normally expect to pay the lower price. However, due to stock shortages and other unknown variables we cannot provide any guarantee.
Is Procrit valid with insurance?
Prices are for cash paying customers only and are not valid with insurance plans. This Procrit price guide is based on using the Drugs.com discount card which is accepted at most U.S. pharmacies.
Can you take heparin without a doctor's approval?
Tell your doctor of all medication you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: high blood pressure medicine, heparin, desmopressin, probenecid, iron supplements (vitamins). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Can you use epoetin alfa while pregnant?
If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. Epoetin alfa should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if epoetin alfa is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Why is Procrit used?
PROCRIT ® is used to reduce or avoid the need for RBC transfusions. PROCRIT ® may be used to treat anemia if it is caused by: Chronic kidney disease (you may or may not be on dialysis). Chemotherapy that will be used for at least two months after starting PROCRIT ®.
What happens if you stop using Procrit?
Severe skin reactions. Signs and symptoms of severe skin reactions with PROCRIT ® may include: skin rash with itching, blisters, skin sores, peeling, or areas of skin coming off.
What is the name of the type of anemia that starts after treatment with Procrit?
Have been told by your healthcare provider that you have or have ever had a type of anemia called pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) that starts after treatment with PROCRIT ® or other erythropoietin protein medicines.
What is PRCA in medical terms?
Have been told by your healthcare provider that you have or have ever had a type of anemia called Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA) that starts after treatment with PROCRIT ® or other erythropoietin protein medicines.
What to do if you miss a Procrit?
If you miss a dose of PROCRIT ®, call your healthcare provider right away and ask what to do. If you take more than the prescribed dose of PROCRIT ®, call your healthcare provider right away. Sudden numbness or weakness in your face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of your body.
How long after procrit can you take zidovudine?
Chronic kidney disease in patients on dialysis and not on dialysis. Chemotherapy that will be used for at least 2 months after starting PROCRIT ®. A medicine called zidovudine (AZT) used to treat HIV infection.
Can Procrit harm a baby?
Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if PROCRIT ® may harm your unborn baby. Talk with your healthcare provider about possible pregnancy and birth control choices that are right for you.
What is the purpose of Procrit?
PROCRIT®is a prescription medicine used to treat anemia. People with anemia have a lower–than–normal number of red blood cells (RBCs). PROCRIT®works like the human protein called erythropoietin to help your body make more RBCs. PROCRIT®is used to reduce or avoid the need for RBC transfusions.
How does Procrit work?
PROCRIT®works like EPO — it causes your bone marrow to make more red blood cells. This, in turn, raises your level of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen to all parts of the body. Increasing your hemoglobin level may lessen the need for a blood transfusion. The rise in hemoglobin does not happen right away. It usually takes 2 to 6 weeks before the number of red blood cells goes up in your body. Not everyone will have the same results with PROCRIT®.
What is the name of the disease that starts after a procritic?
Have been told by your healthcare provider that you have or have ever had a type of anemia called Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA) that starts after treatment with PROCRIT®or other erythropoietin protein medicines.
What to do if you take more than the prescribed dose of Procrit?
If you take more than the prescribed dose of PROCRIT®, call your healthcare provider right away .
What is the drug used to treat HIV?
A medicine called zidovudine (AZT) used to treat HIV infection. PROCRIT®may also be used to reduce the chance you will need red blood cell transfusions if you are scheduled for certain surgeries where a lot of blood loss is expected.
Can you change the dose of Procrit?
Do not change the dose of PROCRIT®unless told to do so by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will show you how much PROCRIT®to use, how to inject it, how often it should be injected, and how to safely throw away the used vials, syringes, and needles.
Can you die from taking Procrit?
If your hemoglobin level stays too high or if your hemoglobin goes up too quickly, this may lead to serious health problems which may result in death. These serious health problems may happen if you take PROCRIT®, even if you do not have an increase in your hemoglobin level.
Why is Procrit used?
PROCRIT ® may also be used to reduce the chance you will need red blood cell transfusions if you are scheduled for certain surgeries where a lot of blood loss is expected.
What is the name of the disease that starts after a procritic treatment?
Have been told by your healthcare provider that you have or have ever had a type of anemia called Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA) that starts after treatment with PROCRIT ® or other erythropoietin protein medicines.
How long after procrit can you take zidovudine?
Chronic kidney disease in patients on dialysis and not on dialysis. Chemotherapy that will be used for at least 2 months after starting PROCRIT ® . A medicine called zidovudine (AZT) used to treat HIV infection.
What happens if you stop using Procrit?
Severe skin reactions. Signs and symptoms of severe skin reactions with PROCRIT ® may include: skin rash with itching, blisters, skin sores, peeling, or areas of skin coming off.
Does Procrit help with heart problems?
Serious heart problems, such as heart attack or heart failure, and stroke. You may die sooner if you are treated with PROCRIT ® to increase red blood cells (RBCs) to near the same level found in healthy people.
Can Procrit cause death?
PROCRIT ® may cause serious side effects that can lead to death, including:
How to report side effects of prescription drugs?
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
How to use Procrit?
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Procrit is injected under the skin, or as an infusion into a vein.
Where is Procrit injected?
Procrit is injected under the skin, or as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.
What is Procrit?
Procrit ( epoetin alfa) is a man-made form of a protein that helps your body produce red blood cells. This protein may be reduced when you have kidney failure or use certain medications. When fewer red blood cells are produced, you can develop a condition called anemia.
What other drugs will affect Procrit?
Other drugs may interact with epoetin alfa, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.
How to know if you have stopped taking epoetin alfa?
Call your pharmacist for new medicine. Do not shake a Procrit vial or you may ruin it. Call your doctor if you feel weak, tired, or light-headed. These may be signs that your body has stopped responding to epoetin alfa. You may need frequent medical tests to be sure this medicine is not causing harmful effects.
Why is Procrit used?
Procrit is used to treat anemia caused by chemotherapy or chronic kidney disease, or anemia caused by taking zidovudine to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). Procrit is also used to reduce the need for red blood cell transfusions in people having certain types of surgery.
Can you give Procrit to a baby?
you use an Procrit multi-dose vial and you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Do not use Procrit from a multi-dose vial when giving medicine to a baby. The multi-dose vial contains an ingredient that can cause serious side effects or death in very young infants or premature babies.
Summary
Bridgewater, New Jersey based Ortho Biotech Products, L.P. is a subsidiary of Johnson and Johnson, one of the world’s most prominent manufacturers of healthcare products.
Eligibility
PROCRITline, a patient assistance program provided by Ortho Biotech Products, L.P., offers the medications listed to the right at no cost to those who are eligible for the program. Patients may re-enroll in the program annually. Eligibility is based off of the following requirements:
Other Tips
If you have any questions please call the Ortho Biotech Products, L.P. program directly.
Important Note
- The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. EPOETIN ALFA - INJECTION (eep-oh-EE-tin AL-fu…
Uses
- This medication stimulates the body to make red blood cells. It is used in the treatment of various anemia conditions.
How to Use
- This medication is given as an injection usually one to three times a week. It is important that blood tests be done frequently to check effectiveness of the medication and determine the correct dose.
Side Effects
- This medication is generally well tolerated. Headache, nausea, muscle aches, diarrhea and cough may occur. Inform your doctor if these symptoms persist or worsen. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following while taking this medication: rapid heartbeat, irritation at the injection site. Rarely, this medication can lose its ef...
Precautions
- Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: blood disorders, heart problems, high blood pressure, seizure disorders, kidney problems, blood vessel problems, any allergies. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death) if given by injection to an i…
Drug Interactions
- Tell your doctor of all medication you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: high blood pressure medicine, heparin, desmopressin, probenecid, iron supplements (vitamins). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Notes
- It is important to follow recommended dietary guidelines while taking this medication. Eating foods rich in iron may be recommended. Such foods include raisins, figs, meat, eggs, vegetables, iron-fortified cereals.
Missed Dose
- Take any missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose.
Medical Alert
- Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).