Cancer: ESAs shortened overall survival and/or time to tumour progression in clinical studies in patients with breast, non-small cell lung, head and neck, lymphoid and cervical cancers when dosed to target a hemoglobin of ≥12g/dl.
The risks of shortened survival and tumor progression have not been excluded when ESAs are dosed to target a hemoglobin of <12g/dl.
To minimize these risks , as well as the risk of serious cardio-and thrombovascular events, use the lowest dose needed to avoid red blood cell transfusions.
Use only for treatment of anemia due to concomitant myelosuppressive chemotherapy.
Discontinue following the completion of a chemotherapy course.