Johnson and Johnson presents Procrit data

Johnson & Johnson has published new data regarding the administration of increased doses of Procrit (Epoetin alfa) therapy to non-dialysis patients with anaemia associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

In the trial, patients received doses of 20,000 units of Procrit biweekly, with 88 per cent of those treated achieving a haemoglobin level of 11g-12g per 100ml of blood. Procrit is currently approved by the Food and Drug Authority for thrice weekly doses of 50-100 units/Kg.

The company reported that the drug was well tolerated by those tested, with most adverse events recorded being classed as mild to moderate and not atypical for those suffering from CKD.

Robert Benz, chief of the division of nephrology at Lankenau Hospital & Research Centre: “These results suggest that anaemic CKD patients not on dialysis may be administered Procrit less frequently at an initiation dose of 20,000 units once every two weeks.”

Johnson & Johnson claims that this research indicates that well-controlled clinical trials are necessary to evaluate both the safety and effectiveness of increased dosing routines of Procrit.

Procrit is currently used for the treatment of anaemia associated with a number of conditions, including HIV and chemotherapy-related anaemia in cancer patients, in addition to those suffering with CKD, notes Ortho Biotech, the firm that markets the treatment.