Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are a class of biologic medications that mimic the action of endogenous erythropoietin, a hormone primarily produced by the kidneys These agents bind to and activate erythropoietin receptors on bone marrow progenitor cells to promote proliferation, differentiation, and the production of mature red blood cells Clinically, they are used to manage anemia and decrease the need for red blood cell transfusions in patients with chronic kidney disease, individual...

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are a class of biologic medications that mimic the action of endogenous erythropoietin, a hormone primarily produced by the kidneys

These agents bind to and activate erythropoietin receptors on bone marrow progenitor cells to promote proliferation, differentiation, and the production of mature red blood cells

Clinically, they are used to manage anemia and decrease the need for red blood cell transfusions in patients with chronic kidney disease, individuals undergoing myelosuppressive chemotherapy for non-myeloid malignancies, and select patients scheduled for elective surgeries

Clinically, they are used to manage anemia and decrease the need for red blood cell transfusions in patients with chronic kidney disease, individuals undergoing myelosuppressive chemotherapy for non-myeloid malignancies, and select patients scheduled for elective surgeries Common examples include epoetin alfa and darbepoetin alfa