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Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa

Amgen · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa is a Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) Small molecule drug developed by Amgen. It is currently in Phase 3 development for Anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, Anemia in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy, Anemia in patients with HIV infection on antiretroviral therapy.

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa are erythropoiesis-stimulating agents that bind to the erythropoietin receptor on bone marrow progenitor cells to stimulate red blood cell production.

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa are erythropoiesis-stimulating agents that bind to the erythropoietin receptor on bone marrow progenitor cells to stimulate red blood cell production. Used for Anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, Anemia in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy, Anemia in patients with HIV infection on antiretroviral therapy.

At a glance

Generic nameDarbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa
SponsorAmgen
Drug classErythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA)
TargetErythropoietin receptor (EPOR)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaHematology/Oncology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Both drugs are recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO) analogs that activate the EPO receptor on erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow, promoting their proliferation, differentiation, and maturation into mature red blood cells. Darbepoetin alfa is a hyperglycosylated analog with a longer half-life than epoetin alfa, allowing for less frequent dosing. These agents are used to treat anemia by increasing hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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Frequently asked questions about Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa

What is Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa?

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa is a Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) drug developed by Amgen, indicated for Anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, Anemia in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy, Anemia in patients with HIV infection on antiretroviral therapy.

How does Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa work?

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa are erythropoiesis-stimulating agents that bind to the erythropoietin receptor on bone marrow progenitor cells to stimulate red blood cell production.

What is Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa used for?

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa is indicated for Anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, Anemia in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy, Anemia in patients with HIV infection on antiretroviral therapy.

Who makes Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa?

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa is developed by Amgen (see full Amgen pipeline at /company/amgen).

What drug class is Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa in?

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa belongs to the Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) class. See all Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) drugs at /class/erythropoiesis-stimulating-agent-esa.

What development phase is Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa in?

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa is in Phase 3.

What are the side effects of Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa?

Common side effects of Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa include Hypertension, Thrombotic events (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke), Headache, Arthralgia, Fever, Pure red cell aplasia (rare).

What does Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa target?

Darbepoetin alfa and Epoetin alfa targets Erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and is a Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA).

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