Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in patients with cancer: update on safety issues

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced anemia in patients with cancer can effectively be treated with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents. These drugs, which are currently indicated only in patients without curative treatment intent, increase hemoglobin (Hb) levels, reduce the risk for transfusions and improve the quality of life. Treatment should be initiated when the Hb level decreases to about 10 g/dl and the target Hb level should not exceed 12 g/dl. Hypertension and thromboembolic events are the main side effects. The association between erythropoietic proteins and clinical outcome including survival warrants further studies.

Keywords::

• anemia
• cancer
• darbepoetin-α
• epoetins
• fatigue
• quality of life
• safety
• survival