Marrowforums - Procrit

When my husband's red blood counts were on a steady decline, it was thought that he might be put on Procrit. Fortunately, for reasons unknown and unexplainable, his blood count improved. Since then it continued to improve and now remains relatively stable, almost normal, although still anemic. His bone biopsies still point to MDS.

That said, we were extremely shocked to read "Blood Medicine," by Kathleen Sharp. This book is available in a paperback version and we think should be read by anyone who may possibly believe he or she needs Procrit, Epogen or Aranesp. In addition, there is a wealth of information available online at the FDA regarding the drugs' safety and use. This information confirms the information in the book. While Johnson & Johnson and Amgen have fought long and hard to justify some of the uses they advertised for these drugs, gradually the facts are appearing and they are good for a very narrow application. It is not to help people "feel more energetic," and it is not a cure. The HCT levels are a very important part of indications for these drugs.

It is important to be informed about the drugs you are taking.