Dosing of Erythropoietin Stimulating Agents in Patients on Hemodialysis: A Single-Center Study

Objective: Study the relationship of dialysis adequacy with the effectiveness of erythropoietin for the management of anemia in hemodialysis patients.

Materials and Method: A retrospective cohort study, conducted in the Medical city complex from January 2019 to June 2019, the study involved 162 ESRD patients on regular hemodialysis sessions.

Results: Change in Hb (percentage and value), was significantly higher in patients receiving once-weekly erythropoietin compared to both twice and thrice and more dosing per week. Overall only 33 (21.2%) of the patients achieved target Hb (10 – 11 mg/dL) with 6 months of follow-up. There was an inverse significant correlation between percentage change after 6 months with baseline Hb, baseline ferritin, and baseline albumin. While with urea at baseline, number of weekly sessions, and Kt/V the relationship becomes direct and significant There is an increased risk (2 folds) of not achieving target Hb (10-11 mg/dL) in patients with DM compared to those without DM.

Conclusion: Once weekly regimen appeared to superior to other regimens (twice or more per week).