Recombinant human erythropoietin for the treatment of anemia in patients with multiple myeloma

The purpose of this study was to attempt, with recombinant human erythropoietin treatment (r-hu-Epo), to reduce anemia and to achieve an improved quality of life in multiple myeloma patients. Nineteen patients (nine males and ten females, 45-83 years of age) suffering from multiple myeloma (MM) and anemia (HBO<10 gr/dl) were given a dose of 150 U/kg with-hu-Epo three times a week; the duration of treatment ranged from 3 to 6 months. Hemoglobin levels increased >2 g/dl in 14 patients (80%); performance status and quality of life also improved. Treatment with r-hu-Epo caused only mild side effects.