Epoetin alfa Injection and Hydrocortisone Rectal Suspension

• Generic Name: epoetin alfa
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Epogen, Procrit, Retacrit

Epoetin injection is a man-made version of human erythropoietin (EPO). EPO is produced naturally in the body, mostly by the kidneys. It stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. If the body does not produce enough EPO, severe anemia can occur. This often occurs in patients with chronic kidney disease whose kidneys are not working properly. Epoetin is used to treat severe anemia in patients on kidney dialysis or for those not on dialysis.

Epoetin may also be used to prevent or treat anemia that is caused by surgery or medicines (eg, zidovudine) that are used for other conditions, such as HIV or cancer.

Epoetin alfa is available only with your doctor's prescription.

• Generic Name: hydrocortisone
• Dosage Forms: rectal suspension
• Other Brand Names: Cortef, Colocort, Cortenema, Cortifoam, Solu-Cortef

Hydrocortisone is a steroid medicine that is used in the treatment of many different conditions, including allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, or lung disorders.

Hydrocortisone is also used to replace steroids in people with adrenal insufficiency (decreased production of natural steroids by the adrenal glands).

Hydrocortisone affects your immune system and is often used to treat certain blood cell disorders such as anemia (low red blood cells) or thrombocytopenia (low platelets).

Hydrocortisone is also used in the treatment of certain cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.

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