Recombinant human erythropoietin that stimulates proliferation and differentiation of erythroid progenitor cells in bone marrow, increasing red blood cell production. Used for anemia of chronic kidney disease.
At a glance
Class
Recombinant Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agent (ESA)
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; do not freeze or shake; discard unused portion of single-dose vials
Dosing
Used for anemia of CKD
Frequency
3x/week (then taper to weekly)
Anti-EPO antibody formation more problematic in cats (30–50% develop profound an
Frequency
3x/week (taper to weekly)
Safety
PCV/hematocrit every 2 weeks until stable, then monthlyBlood pressureSerum iron, transferrin saturationReticulocyte count
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa)?
Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa) is a recombinant erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (esa) used in pets. Recombinant human erythropoietin that stimulates proliferation and differentiation of erythroid progenitor cells in bone marrow, increasing red blood cell production. Used for anemia of chronic kidney disease.
›What is Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa) used for in pets?
Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for anemia of CKD; Anti-EPO antibody formation more problematic in cats (30–50% develop profound an.
›What is the Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa) is typically dosed as follows — Used for anemia of CKD: 100 units/kg SQ 3x/week (then taper to weekly). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa) dose for cats?
For cats, Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa) is typically dosed as follows — Anti-EPO antibody formation more problematic in cats (30–50% develop profound an: 100 units/kg SQ 3x/week (taper to weekly). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa) need a prescription?
Yes. Erythropoietin (Epoetin Alfa) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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