Epoetin alfa Injection and Poly-Citra K Crystals

• 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: citric acid / potassium citrate
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Cytra-K, Poly-Citra K Crystals, Polycitra-K, Virtrate-K

Citric acid is an alkalinizing agent that make the urine less acidic.

Potassium is a mineral that is found in many foods and is needed for several functions of your body, especially the beating of your heart.

The combination of citric acid and potassium citrate is used to treat or prevent hypokalemia (low levels of potassium in the blood). Poly-Citra K Crystals is also used to treat digitalis overdose.

Poly-Citra K Crystals may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.