Cresp 40mcg (Darbepoetin alfa)

Cresp is a medicinal product containing darbepoetin alfa as its active substance. It belongs to the class of recombinant erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and is used for the treatment of anemia associated with anticancer chemotherapy.

Mechanism of Action
Darbepoetin alfa is a modified form of human erythropoietin with an extended half-life due to an increased number of oligosaccharide chains. It binds to erythropoietin receptors on erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow, activating the JAK2/STAT5 signaling pathway, which stimulates the proliferation, differentiation, and maturation of red blood cells.

Indications

• Treatment of anemia in adult patients with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and other solid tumors receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy
• Prevention of red blood cell transfusions in patients with anticipated chemotherapy-induced anemia

Important Risks
Use of Cresp is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke), hypertension, and reduced overall survival when targeting hemoglobin levels above 12 g/dL. It is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled arterial hypertension or hypersensitivity to the drug.

Dosage Regimen

• Recommended starting dose: 40 mcg once weekly (subcutaneously or intravenously)
• Alternative regimen: 500 mcg once every 3 weeks
• Initiate treatment only when hemoglobin is ≤10 g/dL
• Discontinue therapy if no response is observed within 6–8 weeks
• Target hemoglobin level must not exceed 12 g/dL

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to darbepoetin alfa or any excipient
• Uncontrolled arterial hypertension
• Life expectancy of less than 2 months

Adverse Effects
Most common: headache, hypertension, arthralgia, nausea, peripheral edema, thromboembolic events, and injection site reactions.

Special Precautions

• Therapy must be administered only under the supervision of an oncologist.
• Assess iron status (ferritin, transferrin saturation) before initiation; iron supplementation is required in case of deficiency.
• Monitor blood pressure and hemoglobin levels 1–2 times per week until stable.

Storage Conditions

• Store the injection solution refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze.
• Once opened, the pre-filled pen may be used for up to 28 days when stored in the refrigerator.

Disclaimer
Cresp is a potent antineoplastic supportive-care medication that must be used only under the supervision of an oncologist in a certified medical facility. The information provided on mhp.ooo is for general informational purposes only and must not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Self-treatment of oncological conditions is life-threatening.