Scientific Poster Session III - Original Research

Abstract

Research Question or Hypothesis: The goal of this medication use evaluation is to assess the usage and appropriateness of epoetin alfa at our institution.

Study Design: Single center, retrospective chart review and medication use evaluation

Methods: Patients greater than three months old admitted to our institution between January 1st, 2021 and December 31, 2022 who received at least one dose of epoetin alfa were included. For each patient, weight, renal function, iron studies, occurrence of adverse events, and adjunct therapies (e.g. renal replacement therapy and administration of iron or vitamins) were assessed. The dose, route of administration, hemoglobin, and blood pressure were assessed to determine appropriateness for each epoetin alfa order.

Results: Of the 207 patients screened, 161 patients (77.8%) were included in the medication use evaluation. A total of 602 epoetin alfa doses were administered. Across the 161 patients, 69 (42.9%) had appropriate orders. There were 72 patients (44.7%) who had supratherapeutic dosing based on indication, three with inappropriate route of administration, and four given epoetin alfa with hemoglobins above target levels. 64 patients (39.8%) experienced adverse events during hospitalization including stroke, myocardial infarction, hypertension, or death. Estimated cost savings based on these inappropriate doses would be $24,301.92 over a two year period.

Conclusion: Current utilization of epoetin alfa at our institution warrants the consideration for protocol driven prescribing in order to mitigate costs associated with suboptimal therapy.

Presenting Author

Authors