Effects of Darbepoetin-<i>α</i> on Oxidative Stress Marker in Patients with Chronic Renal Failure

Abstract

Objective: Long-acting darbepoetin -α (DA) has recently been used to treat renal anemia in patients with chronic renal failure. It is considered clinically useful because its duration of action is longer than that of conventional epoetin -α . In this study, we investigated changes in the levels of the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde-modified low density lipoprotein (MDA-LDL), renal anemia, and renal function when patients were treated for chronic renal failure switched from epoetin -α to DA. Materials and Methods: The subjects included nine patients with chronic renal failure and renal anemia who were treated with epoetin -α on an outpatient basis at our department. Blood was sampled prior to the switch and at 3, 6, and 12 months after the switch. We then investigated changes in MDA-LDL, hemoglobin (Hb), and creatinine (Cr) levels. Results: There were no significant changes in MDA-LDL and Hb levels after switching to DA. A significant increase was observed in Cr levels after 12 months compared with those prior to switching. Conclusion: Once-a- month administration of DA did not result in an increase in oxidative stress, and therefore, DA is considered capable of controlling renal anemia.