If you are suffering from kidney disease, you must have heard the phrase 'low blood count' frequently. You may be suffering from things like feeling weak, feeling tired all the time, and feeling dizzy even when walking. Today, we are talking about a special injection that is given to treat this low blood count, or what we medically call anemia. The name of this is a bit long, but let's understand it simply.
What is this Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta vaccine?
Simply put, this is a medicine that helps your body make more red blood cells . When you have kidney disease, your kidneys don't produce enough of a hormone (erythropoietin) that helps your red blood cells make more. That's when your blood count drops. What this vaccine does is it works by stimulating your bone marrow to make new red blood cells, which is why you have low blood counts.
This medication is commonly found in the market under the brand name `MIRCERA`. It is mainly used to treat anemia caused by kidney failure.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before starting this treatment, it is extremely important to inform your doctor about your complete health history. Be sure to mention if you have any of the following conditions:
| Medical condition or other factors | Why do you need to tell the doctor ? |
|---|---|
| If you have cancer | Because this drug can affect the growth of some types of cancer. |
| If you have blood clotting disorders or have had a previous blood clot | This medicine may slightly increase the risk of blood clots. |
| Heart disease or high blood pressure | Since blood pressure may increase, it should be controlled and treated. |
| If you have had a previous stroke | Particular attention should be paid to the risk of stroke. |
| If the body has low levels of iron, folate, or vitamin B12 | These nutrients are essential for making red blood cells. If they are low, the medicine will not work. |
| If you have seizures | There may be a rare risk of seizures . |
| If you have an allergic reaction to other medicines, foods or substances | To find out if you are allergic to this medicine or any of its ingredients. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | Your doctor should determine its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding. |
How to use the vaccine?
This vaccine is given into a vein or under the skin . It is usually given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic.
But sometimes you are told to give yourself this vaccine at home. If that happens, you need to follow the instructions exactly . Take the correct dose, on the correct days, at the correct times. Don't take more than the doctor tells you to, or take it more often.
Very important: Do not throw used needles and syringes anywhere. Do not throw them in the trash. There is a special sharps container for these. If you do not have one, ask your doctor how to obtain one and how to properly dispose of used ones.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have overdosed on this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Don't panic, but act quickly.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Things to consider during treatment
It is very important to monitor your health while taking this medication.
- See your doctor regularly: Go to the clinic on the days your doctor tells you to. You should check your hemoglobin level regularly. Keeping it in the required range will help reduce side effects and help you get the most out of your medication.
- Check your blood pressure: This medicine may slightly increase your blood pressure. So, check your blood pressure regularly as your doctor tells you. Find out what your normal blood pressure should be and what to do if it increases.
- Supplemental nutrients: When your body makes new red blood cells, it uses nutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B. So your doctor may tell you to take these in supplemental pills.
- Diet: Even if you feel a little better after taking this medicine, continue to follow the diet prescribed for kidney patients. Talk to your doctor about that as well.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medicines, this one can have side effects, but not everyone gets them. Watch out for the following symptoms.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, face or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Signs of a blood clot | Difficulty breathing, chest pain, leg pain, swelling, and warmth. A blood clot in the dialysis fistula. |
| Symptoms of Stroke | Vision changes, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding, severe headache, sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, difficulty walking, dizziness. |
| Other severe symptoms | High blood pressure, seizures , fainting, unusual bruising or bleeding, swelling of the ankles, feet, hands, extreme fatigue. |
| If it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Common side effects | Diarrhea, headache, redness or pain at the injection site. |
How to store the medicine?
It is also very important to store this medicine properly.
- Keep away from children.
- This medicine should usually be stored in a refrigerator . At a temperature between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Keep it on an inside shelf, not in the door of the refrigerator.
- Never freeze the medicine. Do not shake it.
- Protect from light.
- Be sure to throw away expired medication.
Take-Home Message
- This vaccine is mainly used to treat anemia (blood loss) caused by kidney disease.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor completely about all your medical conditions and other medications you are taking.
- Always be on the lookout for serious side effects such as low blood pressure, stroke symptoms, and blood clots. If you notice any of these, seek medical advice immediately.
- Follow the doctor's instructions exactly. Be sure to attend scheduled tests and clinics.
- Store the medicine properly in the refrigerator, never freeze. Dispose of used needles safely.
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