Aranesp more efficient in achieving target hemoglobin than Eprex, with less dose changes and minor complications

A recent study suggests that Aranesp Q weekly or every 2 weeks is more efficient than Eprex in achieving target Hb in hemodialysis (HD) patients. This study was published in the journal, International Urology and Nephrology.

This prospective, randomized, open-labeled study conducted for 24 weeks included 139 patients who were undergoing HD for >3 months and were >18 years of age, and on Eprex for >3 months. The patients were randomized into Aranesp group (A; n=72) and Eprex group (B; n=67). Patients in A group who were on Eprex Q TIW or BIW were converted to Aranesp Q weekly, by using the conversion factor of 200:1 and those on Eprex Q weekly were converted to Aranesp Q 2 weeks. On the other hand, B group patients continued on Eprex treatment. The primary end points of the study were percentage of patients achieving target Hb, number of dose changes in each group, and hemoglobin variability.

It was seen that target Hb was achieved in 64.8 % of the Aranesp and 59.7 % in the Eprex group. Mean number of dose changes was 1.3 and 1.9 in the Aranesp and Eprex groups, respectively. Also, the Hb variability was less frequent in the Aranesp group. Thus, it can be concluded that with less dose changes and minor vascular access complications, Aranesp Q weekly or every 2 weeks may be more efficient than Eprex in achieving target Hb in HD patients.