Retacrit (epoetin Alfa-epbx) Injection

Retacrit (epoetin alfa-epbx) is a biosimilar to the reference product, Epogen (epoetin alfa). It is a synthetic form of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells. Retacrit is used to treat anemia in various conditions, including chronic kidney disease and cancer chemotherapy.

How It Works

Retacrit works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. Erythropoietin is a natural hormone produced by the kidneys that regulates red blood cell production. By mimicking this hormone, Retacrit increases red blood cell counts and improves oxygen delivery throughout the body.

Mechanism of Action:

1. Erythropoiesis Stimulation: Retacrit binds to erythropoietin receptors on red blood cell precursors in the bone marrow, stimulating their proliferation and differentiation.
2. Increased Hemoglobin Production: This leads to increased hemoglobin levels and improved oxygen transport in the blood.
3. Correction of Anemia: By boosting red blood cell counts, Retacrit helps alleviate symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue and weakness.

Side Effects

Retacrit is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur. The side effects can range from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects:

• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches may occur.
• Fatigue: Some patients may experience tiredness or weakness.

Serious Side Effects:

• Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure can occur, which may need monitoring and management.
• Thromboembolic Events: Risk of blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but severe reactions including rash, itching, or swelling.

Indications

Retacrit is indicated for the treatment of anemia in specific patient populations.

Approved Indications:

1. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): For anemia associated with CKD in patients on dialysis or not on dialysis.
2. Cancer Chemotherapy: To reduce the need for red blood cell transfusions in patients receiving chemotherapy for certain cancers.
3. Surgical Patients: For anemia in patients undergoing major elective surgeries, to reduce the need for transfusions.

Contraindications

Certain conditions or concurrent treatments may contraindicate the use of Retacrit due to potential risks or interactions.

Contraindications:

1. Hypersensitivity to Epoetin Alfa-Epbc: Known allergy to epoetin alfa-epbc or any component of the injection.
2. Uncontrolled Hypertension: Patients with poorly controlled high blood pressure should avoid Retacrit due to the risk of exacerbation.
3. Pure Red Cell Aplasia: Patients with pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) due to epoetin alfa or other erythropoiesis-stimulating agents.

Price in Different Countries

The cost of Retacrit varies by country, influenced by local healthcare systems and pricing regulations. The following table provides approximate prices in different regions along with references for further information.

Country	Price (Per Pack/Pre-filled Syringe)	Reference
United States	$1,200 – $1,500	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£900 – £1,200	NHS
Australia	AUD $1,800 – $2,200	PBS Australia
India	INR ₹65,000 – ₹75,000	1MG
Canada	CAD $1,400 – $1,700	Canada Pharmacy

Top 5 Global Brands

Here are the top brands in the erythropoiesis-stimulating agents market:

1. Amgen

• Manufacturer of Epogen (epoetin alfa), the reference product for Retacrit.

2. Roche

• Known for Mircera (methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta), a long-acting erythropoiesis-stimulating agent.

3. Johnson & Johnson

• Produces Procrit (epoetin alfa), which is similar to Retacrit and used for similar indications.

4. Pfizer

• Offers Aranesp (darbepoetin alfa), a longer-acting erythropoiesis-stimulating agent.

5. Boehringer Ingelheim

• Known for Veltassa (patiromer), although not an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent, it is notable in the broader pharmaceutical landscape.