Atracurium Besylate and Retacrit

• Generic Name: atracurium
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names:

Production of skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery after general anesthesia has been induced.

Facilitation of endotracheal intubation; however, a neuromuscular blocking agent with a rapid onset of action (e.g., succinylcholine, rocuronium) generally preferred in emergency situations when rapid intubation is required.

Also has been used to facilitate mechanical ventilation in the ICU. Has been given as a continuous IV infusion for up to 10 days in this setting. Whenever neuromuscular blocking agents are used in the ICU, consider benefits versus risks of such therapy and assess patients frequently to determine need for continued paralysis. (See Intensive Care Setting under Cautions.)

Compared with other neuromuscular blocking agents, atracurium has an intermediate onset and duration of action; exhibits minimal cardiovascular effects; and has minimal, if any, cumulative effects. Because elimination is not dependent on renal or hepatic pathways, may be particularly useful in patients with hepatic or renal dysfunction.

• Generic Name: epoetin alfa
• Dosage Forms: injection, solution
• Other Brand Names: Epogen, Procrit, Retacrit

Retacrit is a man-made form of a protein that helps your body produce red blood cells. This protein may be reduced when you have kidney failure or use certain medications. When fewer red blood cells are produced, you can develop a condition called anemia.

Retacrit is used to treat anemia caused by chemotherapy or chronic kidney disease, or anemia caused by taking zidovudine to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

Retacrit is also used to reduce the need for red blood cell transfusions in people having certain types of surgery.

Retacrit may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.