Epoetin beta once weekly: review of its efficacy and safety in patients with chemotherapy-induced anemia

Epoetin beta effectively increases hemoglobin levels, reduces the need for transfusions and improves the quality of life in patients with symptomatic chemotherapy-induced anemia with a range of solid tumors and lymphoid malignancies. Recent evidence-based guidelines recommend the once weekly administration of epoetin beta. This once-weekly regimen is generally well tolerated, and studies to date have reported that epoetin beta has a neutral effect on survival of patients with cancer. The once-weekly administration regimen is convenient for the physician and patient alike. Methods to further optimize this treatment are discussed.