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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Hemoglobin Level Of 8.9 A Cause For Concern?

My wife is 86 years and has had chronic kidney disease, Stage four, for over four years. Her hemoglobin is 8.9 and is very lethargic. Our Nephrologist is suggesting Procrit to boost her hemoglobin and thus assist in correcting the weakness. Is she a good candidate for this drug?
Tue, 11 Oct 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi & Welcome.
I can understand your concern for your beloved wife.
Her low hemoglobin is suggestive of anemia due to chronic kidney disease and this appears to have resulted in causing lethargy.

Procrit ( Epoeitin Alfa) is effective in the treatment of anemia caused by chronic kidney disease and helps in improving her weakness.

As long as your wife has no other medical issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease (such as heart failure, past heart attack/stroke), seizure disorders it can be used safely. It may cause or worsen high blood pressure especially in patients with long-term kidney failure.

Hope this answers your query.

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Is Hemoglobin Level Of 8.9 A Cause For Concern?

Hi & Welcome. I can understand your concern for your beloved wife. Her low hemoglobin is suggestive of anemia due to chronic kidney disease and this appears to have resulted in causing lethargy. Procrit ( Epoeitin Alfa) is effective in the treatment of anemia caused by chronic kidney disease and helps in improving her weakness. As long as your wife has no other medical issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease (such as heart failure, past heart attack/stroke), seizure disorders it can be used safely. It may cause or worsen high blood pressure especially in patients with long-term kidney failure. Hope this answers your query.