The FDA today warned that Procrit, Epogen and Aranesp, which are mainly used in patients with chronic kidney disease, may put them at risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure and death.

The drugs, manufactured by Amgen, are erythropoiesis-stimulating (ESA) agents and signal the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells (CKD patients lose some of their ability to do so) and reduce anemia, thus reducing the need for blood transfusions.

Patients suffering from CKD or other conditions and currently taking these drugs should be aware of the risks and talk to their doctors immediately.

Medicine