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Information on PROCRIT

What is PROCRIT and what are its benefits?

PROCRIT, a natural substance identical to one your body produces, helps stimulate your body's ability to produce red blood cells. Your red blood cell supply is increased, correcting your anemia and ensuring your hemoglobin level remains higher even after surgery.

How is PROCRIT given?

PROCRIT is an injection given underneath the skin by a healthcare professional.

If you have at least 3 weeks before surgery, you will receive PROCRIT injections at 21, 14, and 7 days prior to surgery, and on the day of surgery. If you have less than 3 weeks before surgery, you will receive PROCRIT injections every day for 10 days, on the day of surgery, and 4 days after surgery.

What if I miss a dose?

The process of making blood takes time. That's why it is important to follow your dosage schedule and make evey attempt not to miss any doses. The greatest benefit occurs by receiving all of the scheduled doses. If you encounter a schedule conflict, inform your healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Why do I need to take iron supplements?

PROCRIT stimulates your body to produce red blood cells. Since iron is needed to form red blood cells, you need to take additional iron during this time. Follow your doctor's instructions for taking iron supplements.

What are the side effects of PROCRIT?

Most patients taking PROCRIT do not experience any problems.

In medical studies, a few patients experienced some type of thrombotic/vascular event (for example, blood clots) after surgery. These events occurred with similar frequency in patients on PROCRIT and in those receiving an injection not containing PROCRIT (placebo). Patients in these studies were also given medication to decrease the chance of developing blood clots.

In addition, some patients on PROCRIT expereinced fever, nausea, and/or constipation. These are common side effects in patients who have had surgery or take iron supplements.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any problems while taking PROCRIT.

For information on insurance reimbursement for PROCRIT, call 1-800-553-3851. Visit the PROCRIT website at www.procrit.com

*all information used on this page is from the Ortho Biotech company. It is copyright Ortho Biotech 1999.