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)
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.
Find a vet near you →Safety
PCV/hematocrit every 2 weeks until stable, then monthlyBlood pressureSerum iron, transferrin saturationReticulocyte count
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.
Find a vet near you →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.
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.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database