Early intervention with epoetin alfa during platinum-based chemotherapy: an analysis of the results of a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial based on initial hemoglobin level.

Objective: This analysis of the results of a randomized, controlled trial evaluating the effects of epoetin alfa (EPO) therapy on transfusion requirements, hemoglobin (Hb), and quality of life (QOL) in patients with cancer receiving platinum-based chemotherapy was conducted to evaluate the effect of initial Hb level on study outcomes.

Methods: Patients with Hb levels < or =12.1 g/dl were randomized 2:1 to receive EPO, 10,000 U three times weekly s.

Early Intervention with epoetin alfa during platinum-based chemotherapy: an analysis of quality-of-life results of a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial compared with population normative data.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of epoetin alfa on quality of life (QOL) in patients with solid tumors and mild-to-moderate anemia receiving platinum-based chemotherapy relative to population norms.

Methods: In the original study, patients (n = 316) with hemoglobin (Hb) levels < or =12.1 g/dl were randomized 2:1 to receive either epoetin alfa at a dose of 10,000 U thrice weekly s.