Dantrolene Sodium and Procrit

• Generic Name: dantrolene
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Dantrium, Dantrium Intravenous, Revonto, Ryanodex

Used orally for management of spasticity resulting from upper motor neuron disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, stroke syndrome).

Evidence supporting use is limited and the drug is associated with many adverse effects, some of which may be severe (e.g., hepatotoxicity); however, subtle but meaningful improvement (e.g., decrease in severity of spasticity, ability to resume daily function) may occasionally occur in some patients.

Ineffective in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Not indicated for the treatment of muscle spasms resulting from rheumatic disorders or musculoskeletal trauma.

IV treatment of fulminant hypermetabolism of skeletal muscle that is characteristic of malignant hyperthermia crisis; should be used with and not as a substitute for supportive measures (e.g., oxygen, treatment of metabolic acidosis, cooling procedures).

Dantrolene sodium for injectable suspension (Ryanodex) is designated an orphan drug by FDA for this use.

Also has been used preoperatively to prevent or attenuate the development of malignant hyperthermia in susceptible individuals; however, prophylactic use no longer recommended because of adverse effects and questionable benefit.

Has been used for the treatment of neuroleptic malignant syndrome; fatalities reported despite therapy with the drug.

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

Procrit (epoetin alfa) 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.

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

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